Chinese Medics injects new technology into Barbados’ Health System

The eighth Chinese Medical Team to Barbados has introduced two first-of-their-kind medical technologies to the island’s healthcare system, while expanding access to healthcare through community outreach and traditional Chinese medicine services.

That was the word from cardiologist and captain of the eighth Chinese Medical Team to Barbados, Dr. Cui Kun, who was speaking at s Media Symposium and Reception hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China on Friday, July 24, 2026, at the Ambassador’s Residence, in Rockley, Christ Church.

Highlighting the team’s achievements since arriving on the island seven months ago, Dr. Cui said the team’s work has focused on strengthening Barbados’ healthcare capacity through clinical innovation, skills training for local healthcare professionals, public health outreach and the promotion of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). He revealed that the team introduced two groundbreaking medical technologies not previously available in Barbados.

“Relying on our professional expertise, we launched two groundbreaking local medical technologies to fill technical blanks: Barbados’ first IVUS-guided coronary intervention, and the first salivary gland imaging examination,” he noted.

Both procedures, said Dr. Cui, have strengthened diagnostic and treatment capabilities in cardiology and nuclear medicine. The team has also been conducting regular academic exchanges and practical training sessions with local healthcare professionals to share Chinese medical expertise and strengthen local capacity. The cardiologist shared the story of 78-year-old Barbadian Lincoln, who sought treatment after living with severe neck pain for five years. Dr. Cui said the elderly man struggled with everyday activities, including getting dressed, combing his hair and even holding a cup. Conventional pain medication provided little relief and caused stomach discomfort, prompting him to seek treatment from the Chinese medical team at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Dr. Cui explained that the team’s TCM acupuncturist, Dr. Mou Qiujie, developed a personalized four-week acupuncture treatment plan that combined acupuncture, auricular seed therapy and guided neck exercises. Over the course of the treatment, Lincoln’s pain gradually subsided and his mobility improved. Following his recovery, Lincoln wrote a letter expressing his appreciation for the care he received.

“Chinese acupuncture holds unbelievable magic. Dr. Mou is skilled, kind and the most reliable guardian of our islanders’ health.” He said the experience demonstrated that the team’s work extends beyond providing medical care.

“Behind every needle acupuncture, every free clinic, every medical consultation, there is true trust and cross-border friendship.”

Turning to the team’s clinical achievements, Dr. Cui said its members have become fully integrated into the operations of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, participating in outpatient clinics, specialist consultations, and both routine and complex surgical procedures. Among these is the team’s weekly TCM Friday Programme, which offers free acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine treatment every Friday afternoon. Since its launch, nearly 400 treatment sessions are said to have been provided to Barbadians seeking alternative therapies. The medical team has also conducted regular free clinics at two polyclinics across the island, delivering more than 230 consultations. In collaboration with the Barbados Ministry of Health, the doctor said team members have participated in public health campaigns and have also provided medical services in the communities of St. Andrew and St. Thomas, and to employees of Chinese-funded companies operating in Barbados. Dr. Cui said while seven months may seem like a short period, the team’s medical services have helped build meaningful relationships between the people of Barbados and China. “Medical care has no borders, and sincere love warms every heart.”

Looking ahead, he said the Chinese Medical Team intends to continue advancing clinical treatment, technical assistance, public health outreach and the promotion of traditional Chinese medicine as it seeks to further strengthen healthcare cooperation between China and Barbados.