The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs has announced notable advancements in the establishment of the new Sickle Cell Unit. A recent site inspection was led by Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph, accompanied by Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis, Director of the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, Dr. Edda Hadeed, Head of the Sickle Cell Association, and other key officials. The delegation observed that the infrastructure is nearly complete, with primary preparatory tasks approaching finalization. The facility has been thoroughly cleaned, rooms freshly painted, and beds installed, resulting in a functional five-bed unit at this stage. The Sickle Cell Unit aims to offer comprehensive support for individuals with sickle cell disease, including acute clinical care, patient education, and family counseling services. During the visit, officials discussed the remaining steps needed for the unit’s operational launch, such as finalizing essential equipment, completing staffing arrangements, and conducting specialized training to ensure the clinical team is fully prepared to deliver high-quality care. The Ministry remains on schedule to hand over the unit by the end of the year, with ongoing preparations to ensure staff are equipped to provide optimal and holistic care to sickle cell patients. Minister Joseph emphasized the importance of keeping the public informed and reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to enhancing care for those affected by chronic and inherited blood disorders.
