Jamaica Improves Primary Health Care and Focuses on Workforce Enhancement
Jamaica is taking significant steps to upgrade its primary health care system and prioritize workforce development, according to the Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Chris Tufton. Speaking at the 60th Directing Council of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in Washington, DC, Minister Tufton highlighted the country’s proactive approach to addressing the lack of policies and strategic planning in the health sector.
We are committed to reforming our primary health care and have conducted a thorough assessment of the services provided in this area and the resources required to deliver them effectively. This assessment will pave the way for a comprehensive workforce plan, stated Minister Tufton.
As part of the ongoing reform efforts, Jamaica has already begun implementing certain measures. In primary care, more than 100 new physician positions will be created this year. The secondary care sector will also benefit from a new documented secondary care model, leading to the establishment of over 600 new positions in hospitals. Furthermore, 250 posts have been designated for specialist training.
A significant aspect of this workforce revitalization is the creation of specialist positions in internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, general surgery, psychiatry, and family medicine, all of whom will primarily serve in the primary care sector. However, Minister Tufton emphasized the need to address health worker migration, which continues to pose a challenge and presents a significant risk to the country.
A recent study conducted by PAHO on the migration of healthcare workers revealed a gradual increase in attrition among the professionals studied, with the United States and the United Kingdom being the main destinations. To combat this trend, Jamaica has entered into a Technical Assistance Agreement with PAHO/WHO to provide much-needed support in this area. Additionally, with PAHO’s assistance, a strategic plan for nursing and midwifery has been developed, focusing on strengthening education, practice, job opportunities, and leadership in these fields. This plan aims to address the mobility of the nursing and midwifery workforce, which is particularly affected by migration.
Minister Tufton’s remarks at the PAHO meeting underscore the government’s commitment to improving primary health care in Jamaica and ensuring the nation has a competent and resilient workforce. By prioritizing strategic planning, creating new positions, and addressing health worker migration, Jamaica aims to enhance the overall quality of its healthcare system and provide better access to primary care services for its citizens.
The reforms being implemented in Jamaica’s healthcare sector align with the global movement towards strengthening primary health care and ensuring a well-trained and adequately staffed workforce. With ongoing efforts and strategic partnerships, Jamaica is poised to make significant progress in achieving its healthcare goals and improving the well-being of its population.
