MANDEVILLE, Manchester — Mandeville Regional Hospital took time out at the end of 2013 to honour its partners and various categories of staff.

“We celebrate our retirees, our special awardees and exceptional workers,” said Chief Executive Officer Alwyn Miller.

He said that despite obstacles, “exceptional performance” continues to be the goal of the hospital.

“We have sought to remain steadfast in our quest, if even in incremental steps. Today we acknowledge the contributions of some individuals and organisations that have helped to transform the difficulties into possibilities,” said Miller.

He hailed the board of directors at the Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA) for its vibrancy and hospital staff for being “creative, generous with their own resources” and actively involved in “making things happen”.

The efforts of organisations such as the National Health Fund (NHF); Culture, Health, Arts, Sports, Education (CHASE) Fund; the Rotary Club of Mandeville; Lions Club of Mandeville; Manchester Wellness Foundation; Manchester Parish Council; Food for the Poor; and Jamaica Standard Products were cited.

In the last year, the Mandeville Regional Hospital was able to improve its infrastructure and services and there are plans in place for further development.

At the formal opening of the renovated Block J at the hospital in June, Minister of Health Dr Fenton Ferguson said that his ministry was intent on making the institution — which targets approximately 600,000 persons in the Southern Region — into a type A facility, where it will be able to offer all the relevant support services.

The new-look block houses medical wards, a neonatal unit, a fertility control unit, and a surgical suite.

Miller said that during 2013, social worker at the Hospital Ruby Melville was awarded the Prime Minister’s Medal of Appreciation for service to Jamaica.

Also, nurse Nicola Telfer was recognised at the Heroes’ Day function in Manchester. She was honoured particularly for her work as part of the response to a major minibus accident involving Holmwood Technical High School students two years ago.

Catholic College of Mandeville registrar Dr Paul Thompson, guest speaker at the 8th Annual Awards and Staff Appreciation ceremony, said recipients had gone beyond the call of duty.

“Commitment allows us to do, despite everything, despite the negatives, despite the challenges, despite the frustrations…,” he said.