Government Advances Transformation Strategy in the Health Sector

-Prime Minister urges greater care in the sector
Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has called for greater empathy and compassion in Jamaica’s health sector, emphasizing that delivering quality care goes beyond improving facilities.
Speaking at the inaugural Health & Wellness Career Expo & Employment Fair yesterday (January 22) Prime Minister Holness underscored the importance of emotional connection and understanding in addressing public concerns about healthcare.
“Clearly, if you have a brand-new hospital that has more bed space, the care will improve. Your waiting time would reduce, especially if you improve facilities. But the real care that I hear people are complaining about as a pain point in this transformation process is that somehow, they feel that the health professionals don’t care emotionally, empathetically about their patients,” Prime Minister Holness stated.
While acknowledging the challenges faced by patients, Dr. Holness urged Jamaicans to recognize the dedication of healthcare professionals who serve under demanding circumstances.
“We must be careful that we don’t allow these exceptional cases to unfairly colour, devalue, and demotivate the hard work and sacrifice of our healthcare professionals. At the same time, I implore our healthcare professionals to appreciate and understand that many of our patients have their challenges and problems, and it just takes a little bit more effort, patience, and understanding with them.”
Prime Minister Holness also noted the need for collective responsibility in easing the pressure on the healthcare system.
“As a leader of the country, my job is not only to pass laws and enforce them. Sometimes it is about appealing to our better selves, our higher-order emotions, and our real love for Jamaica. Let us all give more care in health care,” urged Dr. Holness.
The Health & Wellness Career Expo & Employment Fair provided attendees with approximately 600 job opportunities to explore various roles in the health sector, reflecting the Government’s commitment to creating a robust and compassionate workforce to improve healthcare delivery.