Runaway Bay Health Centre Refurbished Under Operation Refresh

Residents of Runaway Bay and surrounding areas in St. Ann are now accessing primary health care in more comfortable surroundings following the refurbishing of the community health centre.

The work was done under the Ministry of Health and Wellness ‘Operation Refresh’ programme and included roof and ceiling repair; installation of an air conditioning unit; improvement of the reception area; placement of signage and murals in the waiting area and outfitting the space with chairs, a television set and fans; and the paving of the parking lot.

Portfolio Minister, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, who officially handed over the facility on Friday (Jan. 16), said that the refurbishing represents a significant step in strengthening community-based health care and improving the working conditions of health professionals.

The Minister noted that the health centre, which has served some 20,000 residents for approximately 30 years, had become run down, requiring intervention through the Operation Refresh initiative.

He said that the scope of work carried out was designed to modernise the building and create a more dignified and functional space for health care delivery.

Dr. Tufton said the upgraded facility now meets national standards and is on par with health centres across the island.

Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness and Member of Parliament for St. Ann Northwestern, Hon. Krystal Lee, welcomed the improvements.

She noted that the refurbished facility will continue to provide key services to residents, while offering a more comfortable and functional environment.

“So, we are here at this refreshed facility that will, of course, continue to offer maternal care services…. health promotion and education, community outreach, all different laboratory services, and it is worthy to note that there will also be increased curative sessions and we are grateful for that,” Ms. Lee said.