The Runaway Bay Health Centre in St. Ann has officially reopened following major upgrades under the Ministry of Health & Wellness’ Operation Refresh initiative.

The reopening ceremony was held last Friday, (January 16) with Minister of Health & Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, CD, MP, noting that the project reflects the Government’s continued commitment to strengthening primary health care services across Jamaica.

The Minister stated “I want to commend the National Health Fund for driving the Operation Refresh Programme. They have done an excellent job, and their commitment continues to add real value to Jamaica’s public health infrastructure.”

He further mentioned that “Operation Refresh is intended to ensure that every health centre across Jamaica is renovated, upgraded and fully refreshed as we eek to address the changing needs of the population. Our aim is to restore health centres as the pride of the community, where members can access quality healthcare with dignity.”

The more than 30-year-old Type II centre, which has now been reclassified as a “Community” health centre under primary care reform, serves approximately 20,000 residents in Runaway Bay and surrounding communities and provides family health, curative, and nutrition services.

Rehabilitation works at the facility included roof and ceiling repairs, upgraded electrical systems and air-conditioning units, improved fixtures and fittings, a new health records registration area, enhanced signage, health education murals, and upgraded furnishings. The total investment in the facility amounted to J$18 Million.

The centre was originally scheduled to reopen last year; however, the timeline was adjusted due to the impact of Hurricane Melissa.

Dr. Tufton also highlighted that renovation works under Operation Refresh have been completed at the Oxford and Bellfield Health Centres, with reopening arrangements underway, while renovations are currently ongoing at the Bamboo Health Centre.

Operation Refresh continues to improve the quality, safety, and accessibility of primary health care services for communities islandwide.