New health facility in Ocho Rios expected to help with health emergencies in tourism sector

Local officials in St Ann and neighbouring St Mary are celebrating the opening of a health and wellness centre in a strategic location to deal with health emergencies that could arise on cruise ships visiting that side of Jamaica.

Mayor of St Ann's Bay, Michael Belnavis, thanked the management of the Island Village Shopping Centre, nestled between both the Reynold's Pier and the Ocho Rios Cruise Ship Pier, for having Technological Services Limited (TSL) Health and Wellness Centre as part of their “on spot” offerings to address what has long been a sore point in tourism circles.

“The concern of not having an emergency health centre near the cruise piers to deal with all and any eventuality…something that might eventually happen and which might need urgent attention…has always been a lingering one,” the mayor told The Gleaner following a recent monthly meeting of the St Ann Municipal Corporation.

“This is extremely significant considering the amount of cruise traffic that passes through Ocho Rios and the amount of time it can take to access the St Ann's Bay Hospital. Having a facility in such near proximity to both cruise ship piers and with doctors and emergency personnel on standby can make a world of difference," he added.

Belnavis, who is also the Chairman of the National Cruise Council (NCC), said that the move is also one that finds favour with cruise line officials who are a lot more comfortable knowing that there will be a quick response to any emergency and a nearby facility available to accommodate patients if necessary.

“A win-win for everybody…and not just cruise visitors…but also hotel and guests and locals. This is something we can all use as part of our marketing as it relates to inviting people to Ocho Rios," Belnavis concluded. 

Tower Isle, St Mary, businessman Garfield Dussard, agreed, noting that the facility will also help tourism entities in that parish.

“There are visitors staying at St Mary properties, including Airbnbs who might find themselves in critical situations and where having this nearby facility would help,” he said. 

"In fact passengers coming into Ian Fleming International Airport can also access those services in quick time, in the event that there are eventualities. So it is really a positive move in the right direction on the part of the Ministry of Health and Wellness," he added.

TSL Health and Wellness Centre's Chief Executive Officer, Dr Andre Gordon, also emphasised the critical role the centre plays in providing timely medical attention to visitors facing health emergencies. 

“This development is particularly significant for cruise and hotel guests who can now receive urgent care in a comfortable, accessible environment, potentially saving lives and enhancing their travel experience,” he noted.

The Ministry of Tourism has also welcomed the establishment of the health centre.

“Having TSL Health and Wellness Centre so close to the cruise pier is a huge plus for everyone involved,”commented Chief Strategist and Senior Adviser in the Ministry of Tourism, Delano Seiveright.

“We never know when there will be an emergency, and having this facility nearby ensures that we are well prepared to handle any situation that may arise," he added.

- Gareth Davis

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