Gov’t Approves 50% Minimum Salary Increase for InterHealth Clinical Staff, Retroactive to April 2025

The Government has approved a minimum salary increase of 50 percent for all staff employed under the Clinical Services Contract with InterHealth Canada, marking a major pay adjustment for frontline health care workers.

These staff have been waiting for a very long time for this increase

The announcement was made by Minister for Health and Human Services, Hon. Kyle Knowles, during his Two-Minute Statement in the House of Assembly on Thursday, December 18.

According to Minister Knowles, the increase takes immediate effect and will be retroactive to April 1, 2025. He confirmed that the funds have already been deposited, bringing long-awaited relief to clinical staff who have gone several years without a significant salary adjustment.

“These staff have been waiting for a very long time for this increase,” Minister Knowles told Parliament. “The monies have been deposited and I’m sure they are on the verge of being spent.”

The Minister said the decision reflects the rising cost of living and the growing pressures faced by health care professionals who deliver essential services to the population. He emphasized that doctors, nurses and other clinical staff remain on call year-round and are often the first responders in times of medical emergencies.

In addition to the approved increase, Minister Knowles revealed that a comprehensive review of salary compensation is currently underway. The review will examine market benchmarks and performance indicators with the aim of establishing competitive and sustainable remuneration for health care workers over the long term.

“We saw it fit to make sure that they got their just due,” the Minister said, adding that the Government remains committed to acting in the best interests of all health sector employees, both in the public and private spheres.

Looking ahead, Minister Knowles also outlined the Government’s plans to place health and wellness at the center of the national agenda in 2026. He announced a year-long national focus on mental health under the theme “Shift Your Mind: Reframing Mental Health in the Turks and Caicos.”

The initiative, to be led by the Ministry of Health and Human Services in partnership with the Department of Behavioral Health Services and the wider health sector, will feature monthly programs aimed at reducing stigma, promoting prevention and early intervention, and improving access to care across all age groups.

Minister Knowles stressed that mental health is inseparable from overall health and called for more open conversations without shame or fear. He further highlighted the role of physical activity in supporting emotional well-being, noting its benefits in reducing stress, improving mood and enhancing quality of life.

As part of the 2026 agenda, the Government plans to expand initiatives that integrate mental well-being and physical activity, including community walks and runs, workplace wellness programs, family-friendly activities and creative spaces designed to foster connection and balance.

In the meantime, Minister Knowles expressed gratitude to health care workers, community partners, faith-based organizations, educators, volunteers and families for their continued support of national health and wellness efforts. He encouraged residents to prioritize rest, exercise, communication and kindness during the Christmas season.

“Caring for the mind and caring for the body go hand in hand,” he said.

Minister Knowles concluded by wishing the country a peaceful Christmas and a healthy and hopeful New Year, expressing optimism that 2026 will be a year of strengthened minds, healthier bodies and a more resilient nation.