The Atlanta–Montego Bay Sister Cities organisation conducted its 34th annual health mission from October 5-8 at Wellgate Holy Trinity Church in Westgate, Montego Bay.

Over 200 people from St James, Trelawny and Hanover received free preventative screenings for cancer, HIV tests, as well as paediatric, dental and visual examinations.

Dr Marvet Wint, chairperson of the Atlanta-Montego Bay Sister Cities committee, led the mission and was part of its medical team. In an interview with Observer Online, she said the mission “achieved significant success in delivering essential healthcare services”.

The four-day clinic, Wint added, catered to people who are unable to afford costly medical treatment. She was pleased with the response.

“The primary beneficiaries were underserved residents of Montego Bay, St James and neighbouring parishes. Women benefited from cervical cancer screenings, men received prostate screenings, children received paediatric services, and adults and seniors received medical, dental and vision care,” Wint disclosed. “Local healthcare facilities also benefited from donated medical equipment and supplies.

Approximately 60 people comprised the Atlanta delegation. It included physicians, dentists, ophthalmologists, gynaecologists, paediatricians, nurses, pharmacists, and non-medical volunteers.

Atlanta and Montego Bay became sister cities in 1972. At the time, Atlanta was emerging as the mecca for black empowerment in the United States, while Montego Bay was being touted as a major tourist destination.

First held in 1993, the health mission is one of the Atlanta-Montego Bay Sister Cities’ main programmes.

“The programme has developed into one of the partnership’s major humanitarian initiatives. Over the decades, the mission has provided medical assistance to tens of thousands of Jamaican residents and has continued through collaboration among volunteers, healthcare professionals, community organisations, and supporters in both cities,” said Wint.

— Howard Campbell