HOPEWELL, Hanover — A US$1-million state-of-the-art health facility which will provide cutting-edge care to residents of Hopewell and adjoining communities was officially opened at Orchard in Hopewell on Monday.

Named Orchard Clinic, the centre began operation almost seven years ago, providing limited service to residents in and around the Hopewell area.

But in 2007 American businessman Edgar Cullman and his wife Lousie, initiatived an ambitious move to expand the clinic.

Working in close collaboration with Hanover’s Dr Clive Mc Kenzie and businessman Pinto Mafessanti of Mafessanrtti Builders, Cullman’s dream of transforming the centre in a modern facility became a reality two years later.

Dr Mc Kenzie told the gathering at the official opening ceremony that the facility boasts, among other things:

* digital x ray and ultra sound machines;

* patient monitor;

* suction machine,

* minor operating theatre;

* three patient cubicles;

* two consultation rooms;

* a kitchenette;

* standby generator, and

*a laundry

According to McKenzie services offered at the facility will include specialist consultations; family planning counselling; physiotherapy; drug testing; and surgery.

He added that the centre will in the near future offer telemedicine.

The 92-year-old Cullman who is a principal in the Tyrall Club said that while Jamaica has its ills, he believes that there is much to love and appreciate here.

Arguing that there is no place like Jamaica, the businessman who is a honorary member of the Order of Distinction in the rank of commander, sent a message to other investors.

” Jamaica is a great country…it has problems but I am here to help solve them and this is a great step…I urge everyone to come and invest in Jamaica,” he said.

Meanwhile, Member of Parliament Dr DK Duncan in whose constituency the clinic is located, described the facility as “a major move in the development of the country,” as he commended the investors.