Durrant Pate/Contributor

Jamaica’s ailing health sector, which came in for much criticism in recent times, is set for some revival based on the Government of Jamaica (GOJ) plans outlined in the 2026/27 Throne Speech, delivered in Parliament by Governor General, Sir Patrick Allen.

The Throne Speech, which is delivered at the start of the new parliamentary year, outlines the GOJ’s legislative and spending plans for the upcoming fiscal year. In this year’s plans and programmes, there is a focus on reviving the sector, complementing the activities in the 2025/26 financial year, where the administration advanced major recovery, infrastructure, and legislative reforms, while safeguarding continuity of healthcare in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. 

Following the activation of the Health Emergency Operations Centre, in partnership with the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), the GOJ implemented a structured three-phase Relief, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction Programme. This, Allen explained, “ensured the rapid restoration of essential health services, supported shelters, and enabled timely field assessments across affected areas. Rehabilitation of primary-care infrastructure remains a central priority, alongside the delivery of major capital projects.” 

Hospital upgrades

He cited the new Western Child and Adolescent Hospital, which is being built from scratch with 220 beds, four operating theatres and diagnostic equipment, is now 77% completed. “Significant upgrades continued under the Health Systems Strengthening Programme. These include the J$5.5-billion Spanish Town Hospital redevelopment, now 24% complete; the J$930-million Old Harbour Health Centre, 74% complete; the J$660-million Greater Portmore Health Centre upgrade and the J$704-million St. Jago Park Health Centre expansion, both now 60% complete. Rehabilitation of Cornwall Regional Hospital is now 85% complete,” Allen disclosed.

Rehabilitation of primary-care infrastructure, he declared, remains a central priority, alongside the delivery of major capital projects. The Western Child and Adolescent Hospital, which will provide 220 beds, four operating theatres and diagnostic equipment, is 77% completed. 

Legislative reforms advancing

On the legislative front, Allen reported that reforms have progressed steadily with advancement of the Tobacco Control Bill and the Food and Drugs (Amendment) Bill, alongside amendments to the Nurses and Midwives Act and the Pharmacy Act to formally recognise and regulate Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, strengthening workforce flexibility and service delivery. 

Looking ahead to 2026/27, priorities include the rehabilitation of 101 health centres and the Savanna-la-Mar Hospital, and modernising 125 primary-care facilities. Technical Assessments will also be undertaken to inform the reconstruction of the Noel Holmes, Falmouth and Black River Hospitals. Additionally, preparatory works will commence for the modernisation and redevelopment of the Kingston Public Hospital and a new Type C hospital at Bernard Lodge—positioning the health system for resilience, equity, and future demand.