In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s destructive path across Jamaica, the Ministry of Health has initiated a substantial welfare program to support its workforce, of which over 2,600 staff members reported significant property damage. Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton revealed that 217 employees have been rendered homeless following the October 28 catastrophe that severely impacted multiple regions of the island.
During a media briefing on Thursday, Minister Tufton emphasized that while healthcare professionals demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout the emergency response, many simultaneously endured personal tragedies as hurricane victims themselves. The newly launched initiative addresses two critical support domains: psychosocial assistance through expanded mental health services and trauma-informed care, and financial support through facilitated access to institutional resources for recovery.
‘The ministry is prioritizing staff welfare, including mental health support, as fundamental to our restoration efforts,’ Tufton stated. ‘While our assistance may not materialize as direct monetary compensation, we’re establishing pathways through financial institutions and government agencies like the National Housing Trust to provide substantive recovery aid.’
Data collected through the specially created ‘Healthcare Workers Support Form’ indicates disproportionate impact across regions. The Western Regional Health Authority, serving the hardest-hit parishes including Hanover and St. James, accounts for 1,512 affected staff members. Regional health authorities in the South and Northeast reported 579 and 328 impacted workers respectively, while the less-affected Southeast region recorded 171 cases.
Pauline Spencer-Smith, acting director of the National Council on Drug Abuse leading the welfare project, provided damage assessments: 741 workers with minor damage, 1,131 with moderate damage, 530 with major damage, and 217 homeless. Affected staff spanning 54 facilities primarily require assistance with structural repairs, furniture replacement, clothing, food packages, and medication support.
Despite communication challenges leaving 518 workers unaccounted for, and ongoing infrastructure problems with 80% of staff still reporting to work, the ministry maintains its commitment to supporting all healthcare personnel—from consultants to porters—recognizing their indispensable role in Jamaica’s recovery ecosystem.