Private Sector to Provide Support in Maintaining Operating Theatres

The health sector is to receive private sector support in the maintenance of operating theatres in public hospitals across the island.

Health Minister, Hon. Horace Dalley, said that following an appeal, more than 10 companies have come forward to commit their assistance.

“We intend to sign an agreement with these companies (as) they have decided that they will maintain some of Jamaica’s operating theatres for a period of two years,” he said.

The Health Minister, who was addressing the official reopening of the paediatric wing of the Spanish Town Hospital in St. Catherine on December 18, lauded First Heritage Co-operative Credit Union for being the first company to respond to his call.

He also acknowledged others that have signalled their intention to partner with the Ministry.

“Two operating theatres in Savanna-La-Mar (Westmoreland) have confirmed that two major hotels have taken over the operating theatres there and will be maintaining them,” he informed.

“We will do our part in the Ministry to get it right, in terms of good policy, clear administration and as best as we can, good budgetary support,” he pledged.

Meanwhile, the renovation of the Spanish Town Hospital’s paediatric ward was undertaken at a cost of $9.7 million.

The 9-month project, on which work started in April, was completed through funds provided by the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA), the hospital’s fundraising efforts, and contributions.

Head of Paediatrics at the Hospital, Dr. Jacqueline Wright James, said the project was aimed at improving the aesthetics of the ward and provide a unit better suited to the needs of staff and patients.

“We feel that just having a beautiful ward for the patients to come in and recover from their illnesses will go a far way in helping us to deliver first-class care to our patients,” she said.

Board Chairman of the SERHA, Dr. Andrei Cooke, said projects of this nature are held in high regard due to the staff involvement.

He praised Dr. Wright James and her team for initiating the project.

“The paediatric ward is now a place that is more conducive to effective healthcare delivery and is aesthetically pleasing,” he said.

He added that the project is in line with the broader renovation plans for the Spanish Town Hospital.

The hospital’s Chaplain, Rev. Andrew Steele, blessed and dedicated the ward, following which Minister Dalley toured the facility.