Jamaica to build new 150-bed Noel Holmes Hospital

The Jamaican government plans to relocate and rebuild the Noel Holmes Hospital in Lucea, Hanover, into a larger, more resilient 150-bed Type C facility. Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton, announced that the new site is being identified to better serve the growing population with modern, technology-driven healthcare services.

The project is currently in discussions with the Inter-American Development Bank and the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service. Relocation and construction are estimated to take three to four years. The current facility is undergoing rehabilitation following damage from Hurricane Melissa.

During a tour of the hospital, Minister Tufton addressed concerns regarding long patient wait times and poor throughput. He warned that management teams of non-performing public health institutions will face stronger action. While staff numbers at Noel Holmes have increased from 189 to 270, the ministry intends to evaluate staff productivity against service delivery to ensure improved patient care.