Emergency healthcare capacity across western Jamaica will be significantly strengthened with the deployment of a 10,000-square-foot hardened medical dome at Cornwall Regional Hospital, following the impact of Hurricane Melissa.

This announcement was made earlier today at a Press Conference held at the Western Regional Health Authority’s main office. The dome will provide 100 beds of surge capacity, along with medical equipment, emergency supplies, communications and supporting infrastructure. It is designed to ensure continuity of care for residents of St. James, Westmoreland, Hanover and Trelawny, particularly for overcrowding and during hurricanes and other large-scale emergencies.

The initiative is being delivered through the Jamaica Hurricane Resilience Medical Dome Initiative, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health & Wellness, Judah 1, the Kennedy Quick Reaction Fund, National Health Fund and Magna Motors/Hyundai.

Minister of Health & Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, CD, MP, said the project directly supports healthcare delivery in the western region:

“This medical dome strengthens emergency response in western Jamaica and ensures that residents continue to have access to critical healthcare services during hurricanes and national emergencies. It is a practical investment in resilience and in protecting lives across the region,” the Minister said during his keynote address.

Judah 1, the world’s first and only Christian NGO airline, is supporting the initiative as part of its disaster response mission.

Everett Aaron, CEO and Founder of Judah 1, said the focus is on serving communities when they are most vulnerable.

“Western Jamaica has faced real challenges following Hurricane Melissa. Supporting this medical dome is about standing with the people of this region, strengthening healthcare resilience, and working together to ensure care is available when it matters most,” Aaron said.

Private-sector support has also been critical.Mr. Clayton Clarke, Head of Corporate and Pre-Owned Sales at Hyundai Jamaica, highlighted the regional impact that this initiative supports recovery efforts in the county of Cornwall and the wider western areas of the island, where timely access to resilient healthcare infrastructure remains essential.

The medical dome will enhance Cornwall Regional Hospital’s ability to respond to emergencies and support healthcare delivery across western Jamaica during periods of increased demand.