Major Upgrades at Black River and Savanna-La-Mar Hospitals

Black River and Savanna-la-Mar hospitals in Western Jamaica are benefiting from major reconstruction and renovation works, with several upgraded facilities expected to become operational this month.

Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, provided the update during a Post-Cabinet Press Briefing at Jamaica House on Wednesday (October 7) as he outlined progress made across the health sector since Hurricane Melissa impacted the island last year October.

He said Black River Hospital in St. Elizabeth is expected to reopen its rebuilt male and female surgical wards, operating theatres and a 20-bed staff quarters by the end of October.

The reconstruction has increased the hospital’s bed capacity from 150 to 180.

The upgraded surgical wards include renovated bathrooms, repurposed rooms for doctors and staff, a new nursing station and piped oxygen extended throughout each ward.

The two-floor operating theatre suite includes two operating rooms, a recovery area, waiting area, changing facilities, staff lounge, offices, storeroom and a central sterile services department.

Dr. Tufton said additional work remains at the Black River Hospital, including renovation of the administration building, which is expected to be completed in November, and the development of a 23-bed maternity ward. Two-bedroom staff cottages have also been completed.

At Savanna-la-Mar Hospital, in Westmoreland, an extension of the former COVID-19 ward has been completed and is now accommodating 28 medical patients.

Renovation of the female surgical ward is expected to be completed this month and includes roof repairs, painting and upgrading the toilet facilities.

The Minister said the improvements are expected to reduce overcrowding in the Savanna-la-Mar Accident and Emergency Department by providing an additional 38 beds.

He said the Government remains focused on restoring and improving health facilities affected by Hurricane Melissa, while creating infrastructure that can better serve patients and healthcare workers.