NHF Invests $433 Million in Health Infrastructure Projects for 2023/2024
By: , March 21, 2025
Photo: Rudranath Fraser
Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton (right), points out the features of a microwave to Senior Director of Pharmacy Services at the National Health Fund (NHF), Grace-Ann Johnson, during a tour of the newly refurbished Thompson Town Health Centre in Clarendon, at the official reopening of the facility recently. The improvement work was done under the Ministry’s Operation Refresh initiative, which involves collaboration with the NHF and the regional health authorities.The Full Story
The National Health Fund (NHF) continues to be a key partner in the redevelopment of healthcare facilities with $433 million approved for 21 infrastructure projects in 2023/2024.
The sum accounted for 41.1 per cent of the $1.1 billion approved for 30 projects under the institutional benefits programme, representing the largest share of the funds, said Senior Director of Pharmacy Services at the NHF, Grace-Ann Johnson.
She noted that the Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA), which serves Clarendon, Manchester and St. Elizabeth, received a significant portion of the funds, with $176 million allocated to various projects aimed at enhancing medical facilities in the health region.
Mrs. Johnson was speaking at the recent reopening of the Thompson Town Health Centre in Clarendon, which was refurbished under the Ministry of Health and Wellness’ Operation Refresh initiative.
The programme, which involves collaboration with the NHF and the regional health authorities, aims to enhance the look, feel and utility of health centres across the country.
The NHF provided just under $5 million to support the refurbishing of the Thompson Town Health Centre, which was undertaken at a cost of $25 million. The facility serves more than 20,000 residents.
“This is really a small price to pay for the big impact this health centre has,” Mrs. Johnson said.
She noted the NHF’s commitment to enhancing primary healthcare delivery though Operation Refresh.
“Our health centres are more than just places of treatment. They are places where individuals, families, and communities come to seek care, reassurance, and support,” she said.
“A welcoming and well-maintained environment is critical to fostering trust between patients and providers and enhancing the overall experience of care,” she added.
“We look forward to seeing the positive changes that will come from this effort, and we are excited about the future of healthcare in Jamaica,” Ms. Johnson added.