Dr. Carissa Faustina Etienne: The Dominican Trailblazer Who Championed Health for All

Dr. Carissa Faustina Etienne embodied the spirit of service and excellence that defines Caribbean leadership in global health. When examining women from our region who have left indelible marks on international healthcare, her remarkable journey from Dominica to the helm of the Americas' most influential health organization stands as a testament to Caribbean expertise and vision. Her legacy reminds us that our voices and solutions are essential on the world stage.

Born on November 2, 1952, in Dominica, Dr. Etienne earned her

Building Expertise at Home: The Dominican Foundation

Dr. Etienne began her medical career at Princess Margaret Hospital in Roseau, Dominica, rapidly rising through healthcare leadership as Chief Medical Officer, Director of Primary Health Care, Disaster Coordinator, and National Epidemiologist. Her role as Chair of Dominica's National AIDS Programme during the HIV/AIDS crisis gave her firsthand knowledge of how global health emergencies affect small island developing states—insights that would shape her later advocacy for health equity.

Making History: First Caribbean Woman to Lead PAHO 

After serving as Assistant Director at PAHO (2003-2008) and Assistant Director-General at WHO Geneva (2008-2012), Dr. Etienne was elected PAHO Director in September 2012. She became the first Caribbean woman to lead the organization when her term began in February 2013, and was re-elected for a second term in 2017.

Champion of Health for All 

As PAHO Director, Dr. Etienne became a passionate advocate for universal health coverage, understanding that health equity was essential for regional development. Her Caribbean background gave her unique insight into how health disparities affected small nations and marginalized communities.

Crisis Leadership: Navigating Emergencies 

Dr. Etienne's tenure was marked by exceptional leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, Zika and Chikungunya outbreaks, and cholera and yellow fever epidemics in Haiti and Brazil. Her approach emphasized regional cooperation, equitable resource distribution, and strengthening health systems before emergencies struck.

A Lasting Legacy

Dr. Etienne's passing on December 1, 2023, marked the end of an era in global health leadership. She is remembered for strengthening health systems, advancing primary health care, and advocating for equitable access to healthcare. Her work demonstrated that Caribbean leaders don't just participate in global health governance—they can lead and transform it.

Dr. Carissa Faustina Etienne's story is a testament to visionary leadership and the transformative impact of Caribbean women in global health. Her legacy continues to inspire healthcare leaders who understand that true health security requires ensuring that no one is left behind.