A&E Waiting Area at Lionel Town Hospital Renovated

The Accident and Emergency Waiting Area at the Lionel Town Hospital in Clarendon has been renovated, providing more comfortable surroundings for persons who use the health facility.

Undertaken at a cost of $6.5 million through funding from Jamalco and Cousins Construction Services, the project has transformed what was once an open, exposed space into a modern, enclosed, and welcoming environment.

It features new windows and doors, a dedicated restroom, enhanced seating and air conditioning, improved lighting, freshly painted walls, and a smart television.

Speaking at the official opening of the facility on December 4, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Hon. Krystal Lee, noted the value of partnerships in improving healthcare delivery.

She said that the Government is committed to revolutionising healthcare in Jamaica through quality improvement in service delivery and the provision of comprehensive services of the highest standards.

Ms. Lee noted that the hospital waiting area is a critical space that significantly impacts the patient, visitor and staff experience and well-being.

Having a comfortable space serves to ease anxieties, even as people wait to receive medical attention, she pointed out.

“The renovation of this accident and emergency waiting area is a move towards amplifying customer satisfaction, improving comfort and providing a greater level of responsiveness to our clients’ needs,” Ms. Lee said.

She noted that the improvement of the facility aligns well with the Ministry’s Secondary Care Plan for upgrading hospital services and expansion and construction of new facilities.

“Through this programme, we look to strengthen the confidence of clients and communities at large in the services provided at our hospitals and clinics. Without a doubt, we remain committed to reinforcing this patient-centred focus,” Ms. Lee said.

Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Lionel Town Hospital, Kimberley Trout, expressed gratitude to the sponsors for transforming the waiting area into a space that is more comfortable, dignified, and “reflective of the quality service we aspire to provide”.

“Your investment is not simply in infrastructure, but in people, the patients, families and staff who depend on this hospital every day. We are truly grateful for your partnership and your commitment to community development,” she said.

Managing Director at Jamalco, Marvin Jackson, noted that the company’s support of the Lionel Town Hospital over the years has included donations of blood pressure machines, vital signs monitors, a new lawnmower, and expansion and upgrade of the records room.

“Today’s handover is a continuation of our ongoing support to this hospital, but beyond celebrating this renovation we also celebrate the power of partnership and a shared vision for community-centred investment. We believe that strong communities are built on robust public services, with accessible, quality healthcare at the core of that responsibility,” Mr. Jackson said.

Managing Director of Cousins Construction Services, Lorine Cousins, noted that the company was pleased to partner with Jamalco on the project, which will ensure that residents “get the highest level of compassionate care”.

The Lionel Town Hospital is a 60-bed Type C facility that serves a population of some 36,000 persons in Clarendon. It is staffed by clinical, administrative and support personnel.

Services provided include minor surgery and general medicine, along with monthly clinics in mental health, nutrition, high-risk antenatal and paediatrics.