Video: STEPS To A Well Bermuda Survey
, Minister of Health Kim Wilson hosted a press conference to provide an update on the STEPS to a Well Bermuda survey. The Minister was joined by Dr. Shaun Ramroop, the Chief Medical Officer for the Government of Bermuda.
Minister of Health Kim Wilson said, “Good afternoon.
“I stand before you today to remind our community of a vital opportunity — an opportunity to directly influence the future of health in Bermuda.
“The STEPS to a Well Bermuda Survey launched last year is still underway.
“This internationally recognized survey, carried out in partnership with the Pan American Health Organization [PAHO], gathers critical information about the health and lifestyles of people in Bermuda.
“It helps us track the real-world factors that influence our risk of chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer.
“Why is this important? Because what gets measured gets managed.
“Up-to-date data strengthens the evidence base we rely on to guide effective, responsive health policy.
“But with your participation, we can take strategic, informed steps to:
- Improve access to care
- Support healthier nutrition and physical activity programmes
- Reduce tobacco and alcohol-related harm
- Develop responsive policies that meet your actual needs
“If you are selected, please say yes.
“Participation is entirely voluntary and confidential. But it is also powerful.
“When someone knocks on your door and invites you to take part, know that this is more than just a survey; it’s your chance to be a part of a health movement.
“The survey includes:
- A health questionnaire
- Simple physical measurements like blood pressure and height
- An optional finger-stick test to check blood sugar and cholesterol
“Each person who participates becomes part of a healthier future for Bermuda.
“Bermuda we cannot do this without you.
“This survey has been carefully and scientifically designed to ensure that the health of all who call Bermuda home is represented.
“If you’ve been selected, please know, your participation adds valuable information to a clearer picture of Bermuda’s health.
“And if someone you know has been selected, I urge you to encourage them to take part.
“Let’s be clear: the decisions we make today about how we fund healthcare, how we prevent illness, and how we care for one another depend on the quality of the data we gather now.
“Your participation isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. Together, through shared responsibility and cooperation, we can ensure that this critical health information shapes a healthier future for every Bermudian.
“Thank you.”
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Shaun Ramroop said, “Good afternoon.
“As Bermuda’s Chief Medical Officer, I’d like to offer a few words about why the STEPS to a Well Bermuda Survey is such a critical part of our public health efforts— and why your participation matters.
“STEPS is not just a survey. It is one of the most robust and internationally recognized tools for collecting population health data. It allows us to better understand the behaviours, risks, and trends that influence chronic diseases in Bermuda.
“The data we gather will shape how we prevent illness, how we promote wellness, and how we plan for future care needs.
“Since the survey launched last year, we’ve completed just under 400 interviews. That’s well below our original target. And while the progress has been slower than hoped, each completed interview represents a meaningful contribution to Bermuda’s long-term health outcomes.
“We know there have been challenges — both for participants and for the interviewers in the field. Some people are hesitant to engage. Others are unsure why they were selected or how their data will be used. These are understandable concerns. That’s why we’re renewing our public outreach and reinforcing our commitment to confidentiality, professionalism, and respect at every step.
“If you are selected, please know:
- Your participation is confidential.
- Your data will be used only for public health planning.
- And your time is deeply appreciated.
“We are also inviting former and new interviewers to rejoin this effort. Your work — approaching households, earning trust, collecting data — is what makes this possible.
“Many participants have told us they learned something new about their health. That information can be a powerful first step toward prevention or early care.
“And many of our interviewers have shared how rewarding it is to connect with people, share useful information, and feel part of something that truly matters for Bermuda.
“Together, we can ensure that the decisions we make about prevention, funding, and care are grounded in real data — and that every step we take is a step toward better health for a Well Bermuda.
“Thank you.”
