US donates J$13m hospital emergency equipment in response to COVID-19
Published:Tuesday | March 2, 2021 | 5:29 PM
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), today delivered J$13 million worth of critically needed hospital supplies as part of a third tranche of emergency equipment to the Ministry of Health and Wellness in support of Jamaica's COVID-19 response.
The equipment is part of the US$2 million in assistance the agency is providing to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.
As neighbours, partners, and friends we are committed to helping this nation by providing the technical assistance, training, capacity building, health systems strengthening, and life-saving diagnostics and treatment,” said U.S. Chargé d'Affaires, John McIntyre.
The handover, the third in a series of transfers of critical equipment to the government, adds to the U.S. Government- supplied hospital and communication equipment, and comes in time to assist as COVID-19 hospitalisation rates increase.
The agency stated that the equipment delivery included: 20 infrared thermometers, four emergency transport trolleys, five laryngoscope with blades, five patient monitors – multifunction, 18 nebulizers, three ECG machines with accessories, 30 IV drip stands, two portable suction machines, one transport ventilator, and 10 ICU beds.
USAID said the equipment bolsters the Government’s COVID-19 emergency response and directly aids activities that are vital for helping to stem the challenges.
“USAID is doing our part as part of the overall American response to the COVID-19 pandemic with decisive action in Jamaica. Our efforts to combat COVID-19 build on decades of United States health assistance to the country. In the past 20 years, the United States has provided nearly U.S. $87 million in health and nearly U.S. $619 million total over the past 20 years for Jamaica,” said Jason Fraser, USAID/Jamaica Country Representative.
He further stated “USAID investments are making a difference in the lives and health of the Jamaican people. We stand with Jamaica during their time of need and will continue to do so in the future.”
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