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Government to Purchase Machines to Improve Cancer Care

By: , April 3, 2014

The Key Point:

The Government will be acquiring two Linear Accelerators (LINAC) machines which will assist with the delivery of improved cancer care in the island.

The Facts

  • Linear accelerators are the newest radiation technology available today.
  • The Health Ministry will continue to upgrade health facilities throughout the country.

The Full Story

The Government will be acquiring two Linear Accelerators (LINAC) machines which will assist with the delivery of improved cancer care in the island.

This was announced by Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, when he delivered the Throne Speech  at the State opening of Parliament for the 2014/15 Fiscal Year, at Gordon House, today (April 3).

Linear accelerators are the newest radiation technology available today. The machines produce and deliver radiation with precision that was previously unavailable.

“The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the National Health Fund and the CHASE Fund, will be establishing two Linear Accelerators for improved cancer care in Montego Bay, St. James, and later at the St. Joseph’s Hospital site in Vineyard Town, St. Andrew,” the Governor-General informed.

Noting that the health of Jamaicans is critical to the development of the nation, he said the Ministry will continue to upgrade health facilities throughout the country.

“The establishment of a Children’s and Adolescent Hospital in Montego Bay is progressing,” he noted.

The Governor-General added that efforts are underway to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as high blood pressure, diabetes and preventable deaths.

He pointed out that the anti-smoking legislation which was implemented last year “is bearing fruit,” adding that asthmatic admissions to hospitals have been reduced.

The Throne Speech, titled ‘Going for Growth: Creating Opportunities’, outlined the priority programmes and policies to be pursued by the Government during the new fiscal year, which began on April 1.

 

Last Updated: April 7, 2014

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