Frankfield Health Centre Gets $35 Million ‘Refresh’

Over 10,000 residents of several communities in Clarendon are now accessing health services in a more comfortable environment following the renovation of the Frankfield Health Centre in the parish at a cost of approximately $35 million.

The project was done under the Ministry of Health and Wellness’ Operation Refresh, which is a $1 billion project aimed at enhancing the look, feel, and utility of health centres across the country.

It involves collaboration with the National Health Fund (NHF) and the regional health authorities.

The scope of works at Frankfield Health Centre included installing new reinforced concrete roofing, partition walls, air conditioning and new doors and windows; improving sanitary conveniences; painting, plumbing and electrical works; adding new fixtures and fittings; among other things.

Speaking at the official reopening of the facility on Friday (March 28), Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, told the staff that the improvements are intended to benefit them as well as the patients, who visit the facility to access health care.

“You have to work in an environment where you are comfortable. That is what Operation Refresh is about,” he said.

He noted that the health centre stands as a symbol of stability in the community, and urged the residents to make good use of the services provided.

“You don’t have to go outside to seek services that are being offered here. You have a comfortable place to come, to sit, to see the doctor, to ask questions, to get your treatment,” he pointed out.

Minister Tufton underscored the Government’s commitment to the improvement of primary health care, noting that the focus is not only on upgrading the buildings but services as well.

“Once you are in a community where there is a health centre, you can access certain critical services and we are going to ensure that these health centres are upgraded and improved to give you the best possible life chances as a citizen. Primary health care is essential and that is why we are investing so much resources, so much time, so much effort, and that is why we celebrate every time we build and upgrade [a facility],” the Minister said.

Last year, 6,537 persons were treated at the Frankfield Health Centre.

Services offered are curative, mental health, child health, family planning, antenatal, postnatal and care for persons with Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), which accounts for most of the treatment provided.

The number of doctors at the facility has moved from one to four.