What are your earliest memories of Kingston?

The most prominent memory is that of the Christmas season. My parents and my brother would walk the plazas in Half-Way-Tree shopping for gifts for family members, while being approached by numerous vendors selling starlights, chi-booms and firecrackers.

What’s the most memorable meal that you have enjoyed in Kingston?

Barbecued spare ribs, sweet potato and coleslaw at Rib Kage was an all-time favourite as a child growing up. The restaurant has resurfaced and reopened, and I am currently an avid visitor, still enjoying one of my favourite childhood meals.

What would you do if you were mayor of Kingston for a day?

Health care in Jamaica is continuously in need of improvement. I would meet with the ministers of health and finance to see how best we could restructure and revitalise the public health system resulting in greater staff motivation, system efficacy and improvement in patient satisfaction.

What would be your recommendations to a first-time visitor to Kingston?

A good mixture of culture, music and food is essential for a first-time visitor. For for food: Crystal Edge in Irish Town, and Hellshire Beach. For culture and music: CRU Bar + Kitchen during the BFN series on a Saturday, Ribbiz UltraLounge for Big People Sundays and live music at Stones Throw or The Haven. A day cruise around Port Royal, Maiden Cay and Lime Cay is a definite plus.

How much of your job relies on interpretation rather than what is explicitly said by patients?

Some women are introverts, whilst others will come into the office and tell their entire life story. It’s important that you let all patients feel as comfortable as possible and try your best to reassure them that not only are you a confidant, but you are here to help them as best as possible with any medical, social or physical problem that they may have.

‘Higher quality care, lower costs, and better health’ — how can this trifecta be achieved within the Jamaican context?

Interesting trifecta… I believe Jamaica is going in a good direction with regard to better health. People are being more motivated to exercise and to live a healthier lifestyle resulting in less chronic illnesses. I believe the majority of our doctors offer quality care to the best of our ability in spite of limited resources and large patient numbers. Even though health care is free, reallotment of funds to increase resources and staffing is key to a successful trifecta.

How do you perceive your role in the progression of women’s rights?

I am not only a woman’s health-care advocate but am also a firm believer in equality of rights amongst both genders. If a woman feels healthy and is healthy she will progress in a positive manner. It is my duty to ensure women are at their utmost with regard to their health.

In the face of professional discrimination how would you choose to rally?

Discrimination should not occur on any level. Everyone deserves the right to prove themselves worthy in whichever field they chose. In the field of medicine, regardless of the outcome, once the standard of care is met, there is no room for disagreement or disarray.

How do you measure quality of life?

Quality of life is based upon your relationship with God, your family and yourself. If you work hard, live well and praise God, blessings will flourish. Self-reflection and analysis are paramount for upward mobility.

When do you go off-script?

When people believe that I can perform medicine over WhatsApp and social media. Social media is a tool of communication and expression. It’s not a substitute for a doctor’s consult.