Prime Minister and Minister of Health, Dr. Terrance Drew, has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the health sector, announcing that construction of the new Joseph N. France (JNF) General Hospital is set to commence soon. Speaking recently, Dr. Drew shared updates on the project, highlighting the government’s focus on building a modern and resilient healthcare system for the Federation.
The new JNF General Hospital will remain in Constituency Three and has been carefully planned with contributions from over 400 experts and stakeholders. Prime Minister Drew emphasised that critical preparatory work, including soil testing and structural planning, has been completed. These measures will ensure the facility is climate-resilient and capable of meeting future environmental challenges.
“I can say the hospital is moving along well. We’re going to eventually see the shovel in the ground, so to speak,” stated Dr. Drew.
Dr. Drew expressed gratitude to the Republic of China (Taiwan) for its continued support in advancing the project. Representatives from Taiwanese companies OECC and OIDC, which are spearheading the construction, recently visited St. Kitts and participated in productive discussions to move the project forward.
Plans are also in place to repurpose the current JNF Hospital into a polyclinic once the new facility is operational. This polyclinic will offer a range of outpatient services, easing the burden on the main hospital and enhancing access to essential care in the Basseterre area.
The polyclinic will provide services such as blood pressure monitoring, sugar testing, and general check-ups, ensuring that basic care is accessible without the need for hospital visits. This initiative will help reserve the new JNF Hospital for emergencies and complex cases.
The polyclinic will complement other healthcare facilities in the Federation, including the Pogson and Mary Charles hospitals and community health centres. Extended operating hours are planned to accommodate working individuals, providing access to services such as weight checks and routine tests after working hours.
Dr. Drew noted that the new hospital will address vulnerabilities linked to climate change, which the existing structure cannot withstand. While resources are being invested to maintain the current hospital until the transition, the new facility is designed as a sustainable solution for delivering healthcare.
Preventative care will also be prioritised through improved accessibility and user-friendly services, aligning with the government’s goal of fostering healthier communities.
Since assuming office two years ago, the Labour Party administration has made significant strides in the health sector. These include expanding endoscopic surgery options, commissioning a third surgical theatre for emergency deliveries, and introducing advanced diagnostic tools, including a 128-slice CT scanner and the first government-owned MRI machine in the Federation. Additional achievements include increasing the availability of dialysis and ultrasound machines, delivering five new emergency medical vehicles, and prioritising professional development with expanded Continuing Medical Education sessions and upgraded service equipment.
This dual strategy of building a state-of-the-art hospital while repurposing the existing structure reflects the government’s vision for comprehensive healthcare reform, ensuring a healthier and more resilient St. Kitts and Nevis.
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