THE St Catherine-based Spanish Town Hospital has strengthened its diagnostic and patient-care capabilities with the addition of three pieces of medical equipment, including an ultrasound machine donated by head of the Urology Department, Dr Elon Thompson.

In handing over the equipment on Tuesday, Thompson highlighted its importance in improving the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer, which remains one of the most common cancers affecting Jamaican men.

He noted that early detection and timely intervention are essential to improving survival rates and overall outcomes for patients.

“The official handover of an ultrasound machine and prostate biopsy equipment, including a biopsy gun, represents a significant step for the department. The machine is one of the key missing components for our service and will go a far way in helping us to diagnose patients earlier and move them quickly into treatment. I am happy that I am able to donate it,” said Thompson, who is also a Government senator.

He expressed gratitude to IRAD Medical Suppliers for donating a biopsy gun, which will complement the ultrasound machine in carrying out prostate biopsies.

The biopsy gun is a spring-loaded device designed to extract tissue samples from organs and soft tissues with minimal trauma and is commonly used in the diagnosis of cancers affecting the prostate, breast, liver, kidneys, pancreas, and lungs.

According to Thompson, once tissue samples are collected, the Pathology Department will be able to process the specimens and provide results promptly, allowing doctors to begin treatment without unnecessary delays.

The occasion also saw Sunrise Medical Limited donating a Sequential Compression Device (SCD) to the hospital.

The device uses inflatable sleeves and an air pump to periodically compress the legs, mimicking the muscle movement associated with walking. This helps to improve blood circulation, reduce swelling and prevent deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), particularly among patients with limited mobility.

Senior medical officer at the hospital, Dr Jacqueline Wright-James, commended Thompson for his dedication and contribution to the growth of the service over the last five years.

She described human resources, equipment, and commitment as the three pillars required for the development of any medical programme and praised the urologist for excelling in all three areas.

“Thank you so much, Dr Thompson, for five years of sterling service, clinical excellence, outstanding dedication and innovation,” said Wright-James said.

“This machine will go very far in serving your patients and supporting the work of the hospital. On behalf of the entire clinical and paramedical team of the Spanish Town Hospital, we thank you and pray that God will continue to bless you and your team,” added Wright-James.