PAHO/WHO Representative Visits Cornwall Regional Hospital

The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) Representative to Jamaica, Ian Stein, visited the Cornwall Regional Hospital on Sunday, November 2, signalling support for the quick recovery of the healthcare sector after Hurricane Melissa.

Mr. Stein’s visit was part of a coordinated mission with the Ministry of Health and Wellness to support several western Jamaica health facilities in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.

“Hurricane Melissa caused severe damage to Jamaica, with the heaviest impact in the water-logged coastal areas. Melissa devastated critical water and sanitation infrastructure and disrupted essential services,” he told reporters.

“As Jamaica rebuilds, the most urgent needs are psychological support for affected communities, repair of damaged infrastructure, and restoring safe water and sanitation services to prevent disease and protect public health,” Mr. Stein added.

He pointed out that the visit to the Cornwall Regional Hospital signals a broader effort with the Ministry of Health and Wellness to accelerate recovery. “We will conduct rapid assessments of mental health needs, hospital readiness, and water and sanitation systems across western Jamaica, so we can align recovery activities with Jamaica’s health strategies and disaster-response plans,” Mr. Stein said.

He noted that Cornwall Regional is one of several facility visits in western Jamaica over the coming days, with on-site assessments, procurement of essential supplies, and close coordination with national authorities.

“Specific priorities will include psychological support as well as expanded mental health services for individuals and families affected by the disaster, including trauma-informed care and community-based counselling programmes,” Mr. Stein said.

“We will also be paying immediate attention to damaged health facilities, drainage, power supply, and climate-resilient rebuilding to minimise future disruptions,” he noted.

He added that other priority items will include rehabilitating water supply lines, ensuring safe drinking water, and restoring sanitation facilities to prevent waterborne illnesses.

“PAHO/WHO is working closely with Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness to deliver practical, field-based solutions. Our presence in western Jamaica is part of a broader effort to bolster the health system’s capacity to respond to emergencies, protect vulnerable populations, and build resilience against future hazards,” Mr. Stein said.

Hospital leaders and community members welcomed the visit as a sign of accelerated support. Cornwall Regional Hospital’s administration underscored that rapid repairs and mental health services are critical to reducing long-term psychosocial impacts on patients, staff, and families.

PAHO/WHO-supported assessments and interventions are being coordinated with the Ministry of Health and Wellness. Local health authorities will provide updates on recovery milestones, resource allocations, and opportunities for community engagement as the initiative progresses.

Citizens seeking information on mental health services or water and sanitation resources can contact local health departments or the Ministry of Health and Wellness for guidance.

PAHO/WHO supports Jamaica’s health agenda by strengthening essential health services, emergency preparedness, and disease prevention. Since its partnership with national authorities, PAHO/WHO has focused on improving health outcomes, building resilience, and ensuring equitable access to care for all Jamaicans.