The health ministry has taken steps to ensure that the recently established medical oxygen plant at the St. Ann’s Bay Regional Hospital in St. Ann is sustainable. 

The plant forms part of the ministry’s efforts to diversify the supply of medical-grade oxygen, to the public health system. 

Just over $125 million was allocated towards the project through funding from UNICEF and the Government of Canada.

Among the fundamental areas of the project are training and technical assistance for selected staff at the hospital. 

Eight technicians have so far been trained in the operation and upkeep of the plant.

The plant will be maintained by UNICEF up to December, through contractual arrangements with the plant manufacturer NovaAir. 

Following this, the Northeast Regional Health Authority (NERHA) will assume full responsibility for maintenance. 

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony on Thursday, Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton noted the difference between modernising and transforming Jamaica’s health care system.  

Dr. Tufton stressed that transformation entails maintenance of the oxygen plant and training staff to use it.