THE EDITOR, Madam:
The absence of a hospital in Portmore, St. Catherine, despite repeated announcements and promises, highlights a concerning gap in Jamaica’s healthcare infrastructure. Portmore, one of the most densely populated areas in the country, is home to over 200,000 residents who continue to rely on healthcare facilities outside the community, such as the Spanish Town Hospital and the Bustamante Hospital for Children. The lack of a dedicated hospital in Portmore not only places a strain on these existing facilities but also poses significant challenges for residents in accessing timely and efficient healthcare services.
In July 2020, it was announced that Portmore would finally receive its long-awaited hospital by October of that year. This announcement brought hope to residents who had been advocating for improved healthcare infrastructure for decades. However, the promised hospital never materialized, leaving the community disillusioned and raising questions about the government’s commitment to addressing their healthcare needs. Fast forward to recent developments, and there is yet another announcement: land in the Bernard Lodge area has been identified for the construction of a new hospital. While this news is encouraging, it is difficult for residents to fully embrace it without scepticism, given the history of unfulfilled promises.
The need for a hospital in Portmore cannot be overstated. The community’s growing population, coupled with its geographic location, makes it a critical area for healthcare investment. Residents often face long travel times to access medical care, which can be life-threatening in emergencies. Additionally, the strain on neighbouring hospitals, which are already overburdened, underscores the urgency of building a facility in Portmore. A local hospital would not only improve healthcare outcomes but also create jobs and stimulate economic activity in the area.
While the identification of land in Bernard Lodge is a step in the right direction, the government must ensure that this project moves beyond the planning phase and into implementation. Transparency and accountability are crucial. Residents deserve a clear timeline, regular updates, and a commitment to seeing the project through to completion. The repeated delays and unmet promises have eroded trust, and it is now the responsibility of the government to rebuild that trust by delivering on its word.
The absence of a hospital in Portmore is a glaring issue that demands immediate attention. While announcements and plans are important, they must be followed by concrete action. The people of Portmore have waited long enough for a hospital that meets their healthcare needs. It is time for the government to turn promises into reality and ensure that this critical project is prioritised and completed without further delay.
CUTEL FRANCIS
