By Dyhann Buddoo-Fletcher
In a monumental stride toward strengthening Jamaica’s healthcare landscape, Andrews Memorial Hospital (AMH) officially launched its Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory services on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. These additional services mark a significant step in the hospital’s goal toward a High-Reliability Healthcare institution, a move toward delivering quality healthcare that addresses critical gaps in diagnostic and cardiac care.
His Excellency, N. Nick Perry, US Ambassador to Jamaica, at the end of the launch said that Andrews Memorial Hospital is strengthening the healthcare infrastructure in Jamaica, “The U.S. Embassy Kingston is proud to celebrate this milestone with our long-time partner in health and immigration services, highlighting the power of collaboration in strengthening healthcare infrastructure and building a healthier Jamaica.”
At present AMH is the only facility authorized to conduct medical examinations for immigrant visas. All immigrant visa applicants are required to have a medical exam performed as part of the application process.
The Ambassador further expressed, “The launch of the MRI and Cardiac Catheterization lab at Andrews Memorial Hospital represents a vital step forward in community healthcare, improving access to life-saving diagnostics and treatment for the people of Jamaica.”
Mr. Donmayne Gyles, President/CEO of AMH, in his overview emphasized the transformative impact of these services. “By addressing the gaps in diagnostic imaging and cardiac care, we are contributing to the overall strengthening of Jamaica’s healthcare system,” he stated.
Andrews Memorial Hospital has joined the ranks of approximately 10 healthcare facilities in Jamaica that offer MRI services and now five facilities in Kingston that offer Cardiac Cath Lab services.
Currently providing CT scans, X-rays, and ultrasounds through its Radiology Department, the hospital has now expanded its offerings. According to Gyles, this milestone reflects the hospital’s commitment to increasing access to high-quality medical services and integrating advanced technology to improve patient outcomes
“The MRI service will significantly enhance our diagnostic capacity, allowing for earlier and more accurate diagnosis. This will improve patient outcomes and reduce the need for external referrals, ensuring a more seamless care experience at AMH.”
He added that the Cardiac Cath Lab is a game changer that will provide on-site diagnostic and interventional procedures. “We will be better equipped to respond to emergencies and provide lifesaving treatments without delay,” said Gyles.
The AMH CEO thanked Interventional Cardiologist Dr Raquel Gordon-Adlam, “She is our Chief of Cardiology on our Medical Executive Committee and has been instrumental in this roll-out of our cardiac program here at Andrews.” He further paid tribute to former presidents Dr. Patric Rutherford and Dr. Marvin Rohoutas for their vision in initiating the MRI and beginning the conversation about the Cardiac Cath lab projects, respectively.
AdventHealth, a Seventh-day Adventist healthcare organization, has partnered with AMH for 30 years. During this partnership, they have donated various equipment, including a GE Signa 1.5T MRI Scanner and a GE Innova 2100 Cardiac Catheterization machine.
Gyles added, “And I’ll go further to say that this donation was spearheaded by the President/CEO for the East Florida Division of AdventHealth, Dr Audrey Gregory, and her team. Thank you, Dr. Gregory. Thank you AdventHealth.”
Addressing a National Crisis in Health
Dr. Gregory, addressing attendees on behalf of AdventHealth CEO Terry Shaw, shed light on Jamaica’s alarming cardiovascular disease statistics.
“In 2024, Jamaica was projected to have approximately 200,000 deaths due to cardiovascular disease. This collaboration between AdventHealth and Andrews Memorial Hospital is a response to these staggering figures,” said Dr Gregory, who hailed the new services as a milestone in advancing healthcare in Jamaica and AMH toward a High-Reliability Healthcare Organization.
Dr. Geoffrey Liburd, Neurosurgeon and Chief of Neurosurgery on the AMH Medical Executive Committee, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the critical role of MRI in modern neurosurgery. “The detailed capabilities of MRI best serve brain and spine imaging. This addition underscores AMH’s commitment to meeting the population’s healthcare needs, of high prevalence of non-communicable diseases,” he said.
Dedicated Leadership and Workforce
Pastor Everett Brown, Chairman of the AMH Board and President of the Jamaica Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (JAMU), praised the hospital’s leadership and workforce of over 400 for their dedication, linking the launch to the institution’s 80th-anniversary celebrations.
“This is a testament to AMH’s commitment to offering the best healthcare possible. We look forward to continued support as the hospital builds its capacity to be the best in its class,” Pastor Brown remarked.
Transforming Lives and Communities
The sentiment of optimism extended to attendees, including Dr. Talianne Titus, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist, who lauded the hospital’s forward-thinking approach. “This is fantastic. The availability of these services will benefit countless patients. Andrews Memorial Hospital is a leader in healthcare,” she said.
Enoch Penney-Laryea, Regional Security Advisor for the United Nations, underscored the broader implications of the launch for Jamaica’s global standing. “Advanced facilities like these improve our confidence in classifying Jamaica as a viable duty station for international professionals. This is a win for the country and its healthcare infrastructure.”
A Bright Future for Healthcare in Jamaica
“The launch was beautiful and well-executed, with all attendees’ needs taken care of,” expressed Shereen Campbell, Brand Manager A.A. Laquis Jamaica Limited. “I especially appreciated the opportunity to view the unit, which allowed us to see firsthand what we’re a part of and what’s to come. Also, I’ve been working with Andrews Hospital for a while, observing the plans, and now seeing them finally come to fruition is very exciting. Congratulations to the team on an excellent job!”
The hour-and-a-half event culminated with a dedicatory prayer by Dr. Adlai Blythe, Treasurer, JAMU, and the ceremonial ribbon-cutting of the two facilities. Distinguished attendees included: international dignitaries; church and institutional leaders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church; leaders from AdventHealth; leaders and members from the medical profession; members of the private and public sectors; suppliers of AMH; workers and friends of AMH.