KINGSTON, Jamaica — Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) says it has implemented a series of measures to address recent operational challenges highlighted in a social media post, including issues relating to stationery, laundry services and infrastructure.

According to a release, the hospital recently experienced a temporary stationery shortage after its main high-volume printer malfunctioned. To maintain operations, KPH utilised smaller printers, arranged off-site printing and contracted a commercial printer to produce frequently used clinical forms. A new multi-purpose printer was commissioned on Monday, July 20, and management expects the remaining stationery issues to be resolved within days.

The release said the hospital has also expanded its in-house laundry capacity with the acquisition of additional industrial washers and two dedicated panel vans to transport clean and soiled linen. A shipment of 400 bed sheets is expected to be delivered by the end of the week, while additional linen will be secured through stakeholder partnerships over the next two to three days.

KPH also sought to clarify that the vehicle used to transport linen is not used to transport members of staff, noting that separate vehicles have been procured and assigned specifically to support laundry services.

Meanwhile, Ward 3 East remains temporarily closed because of roof damage and is being repaired under the hospital’s ongoing roofing rehabilitation project. Repairs to elevators Two and Three are also under way.

According to the release, the Outpatient Department South Operating Theatre has resumed readiness for full operations following extensive repairs to its central air conditioning system. A replacement circuit board was sourced, installed and successfully tested, with the unit scheduled to be fully commissioned on Wednesday.

Acting Chief Executive Officer Dwayne Francis said the hospital remains committed to providing safe and reliable healthcare services.

“We acknowledge the concerns raised and want to assure the public that our team has been working diligently to address these challenges. Several corrective measures have already been implemented, and we remain committed to strengthening our operations while ensuring patients continue to receive safe, quality care. We thank the public for its patience, understanding and continued confidence in Kingston Public Hospital,” Francis said.

The release added that KPH will continue commemorating its 250th anniversary through a series of activities culminating on December 14 under the theme, “250 years of healing to the nation.”