HANOVER, Jamaica — With approximately one month remaining until project completion, renovation efforts at Hanover’s Noel Holmes Hospital are advancing in a meticulously controlled manner, successfully avoiding patient overcrowding issues that have plagued other medical facilities. Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton confirmed the positive progress following his comprehensive inspection tour this past Saturday.
Minister Tufton, engaging with press representatives after evaluating the institution, emphasized the hospital’s exceptional operational management. “Among the facilities I’ve recently assessed, this one demonstrates remarkable control with no signs of patient overcrowding, as consistently reported by both clinical and administrative leadership,” Tufton stated.
The ministerial visit formed part of a broader evaluation initiative covering six medical institutions impacted by previous catastrophic weather events, including Mandeville Regional Hospital, Black River Hospital, Savanna-la-Mar Public General Hospital, Cornwall Regional Hospital, and Falmouth Public General Hospital. The 60-bed Noel Holmes Hospital presents a stark contrast to Savanna-la-Mar Hospital, which, despite its original 218-bed capacity, currently accommodates 298 patients between its primary structure and temporary field hospital.
Critical emergency services at Noel Holmes remain fully functional, with Tufton noting that the Accident and Emergency department maintains comfortable operations, managing approximately 40 patient cases daily. This efficiency is bolstered by collaborative support from a Spanish-based non-governmental organization, which has established an emergency field unit complete with operational theater capabilities and supplementary bed capacity.
Renovation activities are concurrently advancing across multiple hospital sectors, including comprehensive upgrades to nursing quarters, dietary service facilities, and maternity ward infrastructure. Construction teams have successfully executed roof removal and structural reinforcement procedures, with concrete slab installation scheduled for imminent implementation.
Additionally, Minister Tufton provided progress updates regarding the nearby Lucea Health Centre, where roofing replacement has been finalized. Healthcare staff are anticipated to resume primary care services within the facility during the upcoming week, despite minor outstanding roofing requirements in limited sections.
— Anthony Lewis