KINGSTON, Jamaica—Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness has confirmed the continuation of the Jamaica-Cuba Eye Care Programme following the expiration of the technical cooperation agreement between the two governments. Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton provided reassurances during a hybrid press briefing on March 9, emphasizing the program’s critical importance to public health.
The program, operating at St. Joseph’s Hospital with support from 18 Cuban healthcare specialists, has provided substantial benefits to numerous Jamaican patients. Minister Tufton clarified that while the current agreement is concluding, the program itself will not be discontinued. Instead, transitional measures are being implemented to ensure service continuity.
Cuban medical personnel will continue performing surgical procedures and post-operative care until March 20. This arrangement covers approximately 140 scheduled surgeries and necessary follow-up treatments for patients who have already undergone eye operations, particularly retina-related procedures.
Minister Tufton urged all patients who have received surgeries to maintain their scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure proper recovery and ongoing care. Meanwhile, the Jamaican government is developing alternative operational frameworks that combine domestic healthcare capacity with private sector partnerships. Cabinet approval has been secured for these arrangements, which include budgetary provisions for engaging private medical services.
The ministry recognizes the program’s significant contributions to Jamaica’s healthcare system and remains committed to preserving its benefits through strategic restructuring rather than termination.