Cheques handed over to suppliers of prostheses
KINGSTON, Jamaica. Tuesday, February 13, 2024: Sixteen Jamaicans will have a second chance at mobility through prosthetic devices, following the handover of cheques to two suppliers under the New Limb, New Life initiative — a partnership between the Ministries of Health and Wellness, and Labour and Social Security.
Through the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD), an agency of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, lower limb prosthetic devices will be provided under the New Limb, New Life initiative, enabling individuals with physical impairments to lead healthy, productive, and independent lives.
The funding will go to eligible amputees who have lost their limbs due to diabetes, arterial disease, trauma, and cancer.
Addressing the ceremony earlier today (Tuesday, February 13) at the Sir John Golding Rehabilitation Centre, Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton signalled that New Limb, New Life is part of the Ministry’s preventive message as it seeks to support the rehabilitation of Jamaicans who have lost a limb.
“Rehabilitative services play a pivotal role in our commitment to holistic healthcare. By addressing gaps in service delivery for persons with disabilities, we not only promote well-being but also foster functional independence,” the Minister said.
Approximately 15% of the world’s population is challenged by disability due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with diabetes being a significant contributor in Jamaica.
“In Jamaica, a staggering 80% of amputations are linked to diabetes, highlighting the urgent need for preventive care and rehabilitative interventions,” Dr. Tufton explained.
“While we emphasise preventative care and raise awareness around treatment options, we recognize the importance of rehabilitative services in improving individual functioning and enhancing participation in daily activities,” the Minister continued.
Funding
The cheques, valued at a total of $6,261,400 were presented to Surgix Jamaica Limited and Tutu Prosthetics.
The allocation, of which the Ministry of Health and Wellness is contributing $5,941,400.00, is for the first 16 beneficiaries who will receive limbs from the two suppliers. An additional donation of $320,000 is from the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities.