(Statement by the Minister of Health, Sir Molwyn Joseph, on the Passing of Dr. Albert Duncan
It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that I announce the passing of Dr. Albert Duncan, Medical Director of the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre.
The news is truly devastating, as Antigua and Barbuda has lost one of its most distinguished medical professionals.Dr. Duncan’s immeasurable contributions to tertiary care have left an indelible mark on the health sector in Antigua and Barbuda. As a General and Acute Care Surgeon with a career spanning decades, Dr. Duncan brought unparalleled expertise and dedication to his role. His leadership at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre helped elevate the quality of healthcare delivery in our nation, providing care and hope to thousands of patients.Under his leadership, Dr. Duncan pioneered many advanced medical services at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, including kidney transplants, hip and knee replacements. His vision and dedication laid the groundwork for improved access to critical and life-saving procedures for the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
Dr. Duncan’s career was marked by excellence in clinical practice, academic contributions, and innovation in medical research. He served as a Clinical Associate Professor and Chief of General Surgery at the State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Medical Center and as Chairman of Surgery at the Brooklyn Hospital from 1997 to 2001. His extensive academic achievements included a BSc in Biology from Hunter College, an MD from the Medical College of Ohio at Toledo, and a fellowship in Trauma Critical Care at SUNY and Kings County Medical Centre.Dr. Duncan was also a pioneering force in breast cancer research and care, dedicating much of his surgical practice to treating breast disease. He was a founding member of the Society of Breast Surgeons and played a vital role as Principal Investigator for Weill Cornell Medicine’s International Center for the Study of Breast Cancer Subtypes, focusing on understanding Triple Negative Disease among women in Antigua and Barbuda and the OECS region.
In addition to his clinical and academic achievements, Dr. Duncan was a mentor, educator, and leader, having authored numerous surgical publications and book chapters and earned several teaching awards. His dedication to advancing medical knowledge and care has left a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of healthcare professionals.
Dr. Albert Duncan was not just a medical director; he was a visionary who believed in the potential of healthcare to transform lives. His legacy of excellence, compassion, and unwavering commitment to patient care will forever remain a cornerstone of our health system.On behalf of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and the Ministry of Health, I extend heartfelt condolences to Dr. Duncan’s family, colleagues, and all who were touched by his extraordinary life and work.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
