Dr Dawes challenges CHASE Fund’s response to urgent needs at Bustamante Hospital
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Opposition Spokesperson on Health and Wellness Dr Alfred Dawes is questioning the motives behind a recent Culture, Health, Arts, Sports and Education (CHASE) Fund statement that refuted his previous remarks on the long-standing need for repairs at the Bustamante Hospital for Children.
In a statement on Wednesday, Dr Dawes noted that “on January 31, 2022, a letter was sent to the chairman of the CHASE Fund by five senior doctors, including the senior medical officer at Bustamante Hospital, outlining critical infrastructure and equipment needs. This letter was accompanied with a list of essential equipment required to meet patient care standards.”
He noted, however, a recent CHASE Fund response which cited a May 9, 2024 application for operating theatre renovations as the only formal request on record.
“Why has there been no substantive action on the original concerns raised in 2022? Who authorised this recent statement, and what purpose does it serve in downplaying genuine issues affecting patient care?” Dr Dawes questioned.
Noting that the urgent issues at the Bustamante Hospital for Children has nothing to do with politics, the Opposition spokesperson called for transparency and a clear timeline on addressing these needs.
“This isn’t about politics; it’s about the health and safety of our children and the medical teams who serve them,” Dr Dawes said.
He also called out what he described as the consistent pattern of blame-shifting by Minister of Health Dr Christopher Tufton stating that “instead of focusing on addressing the real issues within our healthcare system, the minister seems more intent on diverting accountability”.
Emphasising his commitment to advocating for improved healthcare services, Dr Dawes reiterated the need for a transparent approach that addresses urgent needs rather than diverting attention.
“The CHASE Fund must respond to the critical needs documented by Bustamante Hospital’s medical staff and work collaboratively to provide the necessary resources for safe and effective care,” he said.
