Dr. Fenton Ferguson, Minister of Health said that an area of concern for the Ministry is cancer treatment and that a concept paper will be developed on radiotherapy. He was speaking during a courtesy visit by Ms. Margareta Skold, WHO/PAHO representative in Jamaica today (January 24, 2012) at the Ministry’s head office in Kingston. Ms. Skold committed to helping the Ministry assess medical radiation treatment in Jamaica.

The Minister noted that a consultant being provided by the Pan American Health Organization, will commence work on developing a sustainable and cost effective security system for health facilities next month. He endorsed the need for a comprehensive review of security arrangements at health facilities pointing out that “this consultancy work will not only ensure the safety and comfort of workers but also the quality of care that patients receive, so I am very pleased that this project will commence shortly,” said Dr. Ferguson.

The Minister also expressed his gratitude to PAHO for its technical collaboration with the Ministry of Health to strengthen the National Health Information System (NHIS). “There is an urgent need for a comprehensive health information system which will lead to greater efficiency in how we deliver health services to the people of Jamaica,” he said. PAHO has provided assistance by helping to coordinate a national stakeholders consultation on NHIS strengthening. A final NHIS report was produced in October 2011 through the contracting of a consultant by PAHO.

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 Contact: MOH, Public Relations Unit Tel: 967-1561

You can view this press release and other information on our website at www.moh.gov.jm