KINGSTON, Jamaica — A significant healthcare infrastructure development is underway as the Jamaican government initiates land acquisition procedures in the Greater Bernard Lodge development zone of St. Catherine for constructing a Type C hospital. This strategic move has garnered enthusiastic support from community representatives and mayoral candidate Markland Edwards, who hails from the region.
The revelation came from Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton during a media briefing following his inspection tour of the Greater Portmore Health Centre, which is currently undergoing substantial expansion. The timing coincides with Portmore’s transition toward achieving formal parish status, marking a historic administrative elevation for the community known as the ‘Sunshine City.’
Edwards characterized the hospital project as a ‘total game-changer’ for local families, emphasizing that the infrastructure development aligns perfectly with Portmore’s growing status and population demands. The mayoral candidate extended congratulations to both the Ministry of Health and Wellness and Portmore residents for reaching this substantial milestone in healthcare accessibility.
Concurrent with the hospital planning, the Greater Portmore Health Centre expansion—reported to be 65% complete—is expected to become operational as a functional ‘mini-hospital’ by mid-year. Dr. Tufton further indicated that additional healthcare facilities throughout Portmore are undergoing evaluation for potential upgrades and expansion under the government’s comprehensive health infrastructure development initiative.
This multi-tiered approach to healthcare improvement addresses the urgent needs of Portmore’s rapidly expanding population while demonstrating the government’s commitment to modernizing medical services. Edwards praised the initiative as an investment in community health and security that transcends mere physical structures, ultimately contributing to a healthier future for all Portmore residents.