Kingston Public Hospital Faces Operating Room Crisis. According to reliable sources, five operating theaters at Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) are currently out of service. As a result, the hospital’s ability to perform surgeries is significantly impacted.
This issue has arisen following the Health Minister’s repeated denial and concealment of the severe conditions in Jamaica’s public hospitals. This stance has drawn criticism and concern from the public.
The South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) confirmed the untenable situation at KPH. This was stated in a statement on Friday, February 14, 2025.
It stated that Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) is facing operational challenges that may require the transfer of patients to nearby healthcare facilities,
The areas affected by these operational challenges at Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) are extensive. They include the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department, the main operating theater, the recovery room, and the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Still, SERHA did not disclose specific details about these operational challenges in its statement on Friday.
At least two operating theaters at Kingston Public Hospital do not have air conditioning
However, media reports indicate that the air-conditioning (AC) units in two of KPH’s operating theaters are not functioning. The reason is motherboard issues, which Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton confirmed in a radio interview last week.
He noted that the maintenance company is working tirelessly to resolve these issues, reassuring the public.
On Friday, SERHA reassured the public that the authorities had implemented contingency measures to ensure continued patient care at KPH.
The statement mentioned,
“It may become necessary to transfer patients to other nearby healthcare facilities within SERHA for continued care.” SERHA’s operations and maintenance team is working diligently. External contractors are also working hard to restore normal operations at the island’s primary public hospital. The authority has committed to providing periodic updates on the situation. “We appreciate your understanding and patience as we strive to restore optimal service delivery during this challenging time,” SERHA stated.
The Kingston Public Hospital is Jamaica’s primary healthcare facility. The closure of five operating theaters at the same time reflects poorly on the hospital’s management. It also affects the Ministry of Health and Wellness.