By OSWALD T. BROWN
WASHINGTON, D.C., October 21, 2023 – Noted Bahamian physician Dr. Perry Gomez, who was known globally for his work on HIV/AIDS research, died today in Nassau, Bahamas, at the age of 76
As founder of the National HIV Program of The Bahamas, under his direction the program had a major impact on decreasing the spread of the disease. HIV transmission rates in The Bahamas declined by more than 30 percent and HIV transmission from mother-to-child also decreased dramatically. What’s more, 72 percent of all persons with advanced HIV received requisite treatment and all persons with HIV and TB co-infection received full treatment for both conditions.
Commenting on the death of the renowned medical doctor, Bahamas Prime Minister Philip E. Davis said, “Today, our nation mourns the loss of a giant in public health and a true son of Bahamian soil, Dr. Michael Perry Gomez. Dr. Gomez’s life epitomized the very spirit of selflessness, commitment, and passion for the health and well-being of our people.
“For over three decades, Dr. Gomez spearheaded efforts that not only transformed the landscape of public health in The Bahamas, but also reverberated across the Caribbean and the world. From his groundbreaking work in reducing mother-to-child transmission of HIV using AZT treatments to pioneering partnerships that made crucial medications more accessible to our people, he left an indelible mark. It’s hard to imagine where we would be in our fight against infectious diseases, especially HIV/AIDS, without Dr. Gomez’s visionary leadership.”
Prime Minister Davis added, “I fondly recall the many times Dr. Gomez and I sat down to discuss the intricacies of our public health policies. His infectious enthusiasm, combined with a profound depth of knowledge, was truly inspiring. Every interaction was a masterclass, and I often left our meetings with renewed faith in our nation’s capabilities and potential.
“Dr. Gomez’s life story, from his humble beginnings on Family Island to his celebrated contributions in the field of medicine, serves as a beacon of inspiration for all Bahamians. His dedication to public service and his unrelenting pursuit of excellence have paved the way for future generations of medical professionals in our nation.
“Beyond his accolades, which are numerous, Dr. Gomez was a compassionate human being who treated every patient, every colleague, and every student with the same level of respect and care. Whether you were a fellow doctor, a young intern, or someone seeking his expertise, Perry made you feel seen and heard.”
Noting that Dr. Gomez’s legacy “extends beyond his pioneering work in medicine. Prime Minister Davis added, “As Minister of Health, Dr. Gomez displayed a profound commitment to ensuring that all Bahamians had access to quality healthcare. His belief that healthcare is a human right, not a privilege, resonated deeply with me and has continued to shape our government’s policies.
“Today, as we grieve his loss, let us also celebrate the life of a man who truly exemplified what it means to serve one’s nation. To the family of Dr. Gomez, Ann (First Lady Ann Marie Davis) and I extend our deepest condolences. Know that the legacy of Dr. Perry Gomez is etched into the heart of our nation and will continue to inspire us for generations to come.”
Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper said, “I was saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Perry Gomez today. He was a former minister of health and member of Parliament and served with distinction. However, more impactful was his work in the medical field, specifically regarding the fight against HIV/AIDS. He was an iconic leader in this space at home and abroad.
“He saved countless Bahamian lives and was a voice of reason and demonstrated compassion during a time when a lack of knowledge among the public sparked fear. He reminded us that all people deserve basic human dignity and practiced that daily.
“Our nation has lost a great son. I send condolences from my family and from the people of Exuma and Ragged Island, to his family.
“May God comfort them. And may his soul rest in peace.”
Born January 18, 1947 in New Providence, where the capital of Nassau is located, Dr. Gomez graduated from the University of the West Indies (UWI) with a degree in medicine in 1971. He then attended medical school at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, where he specialized in Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases.
He was also actively involved in politics and was elected to The Bahamas House of Assembly in 2012 as the representative for North Andros and The Berry Islands and was appointed by Prime Minister Perry Christie as Minister of Health.
