BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — Barbados has expanded access to dedicated adolescent healthcare services, with seven of the island’s nine polyclinics now offering specialised support to young people.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness launched the “Yuh Good” adolescent health programme on September 21, targeting residents between 10 and 19 years old.

The programme covers a broad range of health needs, including mental health, reproductive health, communicable and non-communicable diseases, self-harm, substance use and physical trauma.

Adolescent health clinics were initially introduced at three polyclinics in 2025. Four additional locations were added in 2026, bringing the total to seven.

Figures from the existing clinics show that 111 adolescents received care, with mental-health referrals accounting for part of the follow-up services provided.

Health officials say the programme is supported by national adolescent-health planning and standards designed to create a more consistent approach to services for young people.

The expansion gives teenagers across more communities greater access to youth-focused healthcare and referral services without relying solely on hospital-based care.