Social Security Donates Vital Endoscopy and Colonoscopy Equipment to JNF General Hospital

Bay Road, Basseterre, St. Kitts (TUESDAY 08TH OCTOBER 2024) – The Social Security Board has generously donated two state-of-the-art Endoscopy machines and two Colonoscopy machines to the JNF General Hospital today, Tuesday 08th October 2024. This significant contribution demonstrates Social Security’s ongoing commitment to improving the healthcare services available to the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.

In a brief handover ceremony held at the JNF hospital earlier today, Dr. Jenson Morton, Director of Health Institutions, gratefully accepted the equipment noting that the newly donated equipment will enable the Hospital to expand its diagnostic capabilities, particularly in the areas of gastrointestinal health and will be a major improvement.

“The endoscopy and colonoscopy machines are essential tools for early detection and treatment of various conditions, including colorectal (Colon) cancer, ulcers, and other digestive disorders. With these machines, the hospital will be able to provide more timely and effective care, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad.”

Director of the Social Security Board, Christopher Louard, underscored the cemented efforts of the Board contributing to the well-being of citizens not only through financial support but also tangible efforts like health care and education. “The Social Security Board is deeply invested in the welfare of our people, whether through education by way of the Susanna Lee High School Scholarship or like today where we recognize that healthcare plays a critical role not only in building a strong and healthy society but for the continuation of a sustainable fund,” the Director stated.

Director Louard went on to commend the ongoing partnership between the Social Security Board and the Ministry of Health, highlighting the positive impact that such collaborations have on the well-being of citizens, before officially handing over the equipment.

Also expressing heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the government and the people, Prime Minister, Minister of Health and Social Security et al, Hon. Dr. Terrence Drew acknowledged the vital role these machines will play in enhancing healthcare services at the JNF hospital earmarking the occasion as a “Step towards the modernization of health care for the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.”

The Prime Minister also remarked that this timely donation was well received as doctors and surgeons from the JNF General Hospital are gearing up to host and participate in an upcoming Endoscopy Convention, further enhancing their skills and knowledge in gastrointestinal diagnostics and treatment. This prestigious convention to be held in November will bring together medical professionals and experts from around the region to discuss the latest advancements, techniques, best practices and technology in Endoscopy.

Shortly after the formal ceremony, the media and attendees were invited to view the newly allotted Endoscopy Unit that now houses the two (2) Endoscopy and two (2) colonoscopy machines. Medical professionals Dr. Joylette Woodley-Fassale, Chief of Surgery and Dr. Mark Grant, Consultant General Surgeon & Endoscopy Sub-Specialist, provided firsthand knowledge about the advanced equipment, explaining the significance of the equipment and shared insights into the improvement these machines will provide.

This momentous occasion also saw the attendance of Dr. Daveen Wilkin, Medical Chief of Staff, Mrs. Kerry Williams-Tucket, Director of Institution-Nursing, Mrs. Sandra Lestrade-Caines, Asst. Matron, Ms. Stacey Battice, Operations Manager, Staff of the Operations Theatre, Members of the Social Security Board and the Media.

The Social Security Board is extremely proud of its investment in healthcare and affirms that this donation is a testament to the fund’s ongoing dedication to community development, demonstrating that healthcare and wellness are integral to the nation’s progress. Over the last five years, the Social Security Board has invested over $1.35 million directly to healthcare and medical equipment.