- Health Ministry redoubles efforts to give Jamaicans a second chance to smile
KINGSTON, Jamaica. Tuesday, May 7, 2024: The Ministry of Health & Wellness is redoubling its efforts to provide Jamaicans with a second chance to smile, with the plan to provide another 8,000 persons with dentures this financial year.
This is up from the just over 2,000 persons who benefitted in the last financial year, following the announcement of the $60-million programme, Second Chance Smiles.
Minister of Health & Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton made the revelation during his Sectoral presentation earlier today (Tuesday, May 7).
“This year we will target 8,000 dentures, valued at approximately $60 million. This programme has been overwhelmingly received, giving confidence to those who lose a tooth or teeth, improving their general health through proper digestion and making them more able to be integrated in the world of work,” the Minister told Parliament.
“Like Amelya, a 14-year-old student of Greater Portmore High School or Coreen Smith Williams, a 56-year-old self-employed resident of Cockburn Gardens in Kingston 11. Their replacement dentures have given them confidence and a healthier approach to life and living. This journey must continue with the expansion of this programme,” the Minister added.
The programme, which has attracted growing interest from members of the public provides the opportunity for Jamaicans under 60 years old to apply for replacement dentures through the more than 82 dental centres islandwide.