KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Ministry of Health says institutions across the island are resuming normal operations, following the passage of Hurricane Beryl.
In a statement, the Ministry said with post-hurricane assessments ongoing, all public hospitals are now open to members of the public and most are offering their full suite of services.
“Across primary care services, health centres are functioning – some at full service, while others have redirected patients to nearby facilities.
“Fourteen (14) of the island’s hospitals are now in full operation, while the remaining 10 are on track for the resumption of full services by Monday, July 8,” the release stated.
It also said seven hospitals are back on the national grid, while the others are on generators.
According to Health Minister, Dr. Christopher Tufton, some health centres have experienced significant damage, but contingencies are in place, with the hope of full resumption by Monday.
He added that at the same time, facilities in some parishes, primarily those most affected by Hurricane Beryl, remain in emergency mode.
Across the Southern Regional Health Authority, which comprises the southern parishes of St Elizabeth, Clarendon and Manchester, all hospitals are offering emergency services only.
There are reports of 84 incidents of major damage including impacts on roofs, doors, ceilings, fencing and electrical systems, across all health facilities, with most damage done to those in the southern parish of St Elizabeth.
The current estimated cost for repairs to all affected health facilities is some J$1.098 billion 9 (One Jamaica dollar=US$0.008 cents).
