KINGSTON, Jamaica — Biomedical Caledonia Medical Laboratory Limited has expanded National Health Fund (NHF) card access across all its islandwide locations, allowing patients to receive subsidised pap smears, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, and HbA1c diabetes monitoring.

The move means Jamaicans can now access these critical preventive screenings at any Biomedical outstation, including its recently opened Holborn Road facility in Kingston.

CEO Helen Christian said the expansion aims to remove financial barriers that prevent many from getting early detection tests.

“Access to affordable diagnostic testing can mean the difference between early detection and late-stage diagnosis,” she said. “Early detection saves lives, and we are committed to making these essential services available to every community we serve.”

The rollout follows collaboration with the NHF and Advanced Integrated Systems (AIS) to streamline processing across all sites, assign provider numbers, and train staff to handle NHF claims efficiently.

The NHF Card Programme supports Jamaicans living with any of 24 chronic illnesses by subsidising medications, supplies, and diagnostic tests. Regular pap smears help prevent cervical cancer, PSA tests support early detection of prostate cancer, and HbA1c testing is vital for managing diabetes—one of the country’s most widespread chronic conditions.

With more than 50 collection centres and ISO 15189 accreditation, Biomedical said it is well-positioned to improve access across communities.

Christian added that the partnership with the NHF represents a step toward broader, equitable access to diagnostic services, ensuring that

“Geography and finances never stand between Jamaicans and the healthcare they need,” she said.