Significant Improvement at Infirmaries Islandwide

There has been a significant improvement in living conditions in State-run infirmaries across the island.

Infirmaries, which are essential facilities offering shelter and support services to the elderly, destitute, and mentally ill individuals who have no other means of care, have been given priority treatment by the Government, through the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development, and are being praised by civil society, including key stakeholders, for the improved service provided.

“It is clear that the Government has invested substantial resources to improve infrastructure and living conditions within these institutions,” notes Hanover businessman, Paul Taylor.

Mr. Taylor, who was on a recent tour of the Hanover Infirmary with Portfolio Minister, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, says he remembers when the facility was in a state of disrepair, to where it is now easily one of the more attractive and better run infirmaries in the island.

“What you are seeing today is far different than what existed in the past. I am so proud of what I am seeing that I encourage friends to do whatever they can to give support,” he tells JIS News.

Minister McKenzie agrees, calling the Hanover Infirmary one of the top “tier” infirmaries, “well-kept and well run”.

“I want to commend the Matron and staff because they have done a fantastic job. It is one of those infirmaries that I don’t worry about,” the Minister says.

Mr. McKenzie says he is hoping that in November when he visits to break ground for a therapeutic park at the facility, he can also break ground for a Matron’s quarters.

The Minister adds that he can say without any fear of contradiction that 99 per cent of infirmaries [inclusive of 13 infirmaries and two golden age homes] are in “top shape,” noting that the work that has been carried out at the facilities since 2016 has been unparalleled.

Mr. McKenzie reiterates the Government’s commitment to taking care of the poor, vulnerable and elderly who occupy the spaces.

He adds that by focusing on the improvement of infirmaries and expanding social support programmes, the aim is to address the critical needs of its most vulnerable populations.

“There is nothing that [defines] a society more than the way it treats the poor and vulnerable,” Mr. McKenzie emphasises.

“I remember visiting one of the infirmaries, and to say it was spic and span [would be putting it mildly]. I remember commending the Mayor on how impressed I was with the facility, and he turned to me and said something I will never forget. He said: ‘Minister, I don’t know what the future holds and one day I might end up in one of these facilities, so I have to ensure that I do all I can to keep it this way’,” the Minister adds.

In the meantime, Mr. McKenzie also cites the improvement in infrastructure, including renovations, repairs, and expansions to accommodate a growing number of residents.

The Government, he adds, has also focused on ensuring a safe and comfortable living environment, addressing issues such as access to clean water, electricity and adequate sanitary facilities.

These improvements contribute to the overall well-being and quality of life of the residents, the Minister adds.

Chairman of Jamaica’s Cruise Council and Councillor for the Ocho Rios Division in St. Ann, Michael Belnavis, says the Government must also be commended for establishing partnerships with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community-based groups to provide additional support.

These collaborations, he notes, focus on a variety of things, including trying to make the lives of those that are most vulnerable as comfortable as possible.

“In addition to improving physical infrastructure and healthcare services, the Government has implemented various support programmes to assist the poor, vulnerable, and elderly residing in infirmaries. These programmes are designed to address their specific needs and enhance their overall well-being.,” Mr. Belnavis adds.

For her part, Savanna-la-Mar resident, Sandra Smith, says one only has to look at the new male ward at the Westmoreland Infirmary to see how much work has been put in to make the facility more palatable to both staff and residents.

“Just look at the before and after pictures,” she tells JIS News.