In a significant move to address the growing healthcare needs of Portmore, the Jamaican Government has earmarked land in the Bernard Lodge area for the construction of a new hospital. A feasibility study is currently underway to determine the design and structure of this much-needed medical facility.
Health and Wellness Minister Christopher Tufton announced the development, highlighting the government’s strategic vision for the rapidly expanding communities in the region. Speaking at the St Catherine Chamber of Commerce’s monthly meeting in Spanish Town, Tufton emphasized the need to adapt to the area’s population growth, suggesting that the parish may even need to be split to better manage resources.
The minister pointed out that the expansion of healthcare facilities in St Catherine is crucial to accommodate both current and future population increases, driven by a surge in housing developments. “Bernard Lodge alone represents close to 15,000 new houses,” Tufton noted. “With three to four residents per house, we’re looking at a significant population boost.”
Since 2016, the region has seen substantial progress in public health infrastructure, with the Spanish Town Hospital undergoing a $5.5 billion expansion. The number of patients seeking care has risen from 39,000 to approximately 45,000 in 2024, underscoring the urgent need for additional healthcare resources.
Tufton highlighted the strides made in staffing, with the number of nurses increasing from 223 in 2016 to 489 by the end of 2024, and doctors rising from 83 to 194. “This is a significant increase,” he remarked, acknowledging the ongoing demand for healthcare services.
As the population continues to grow, the government is committed to implementing a comprehensive plan to meet the region’s healthcare needs. The new hospital in Bernard Lodge is a key part of this strategy, ensuring that the community is well-equipped to handle future challenges.
