The Ministry of Health and Wellness, in partnership with the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, will be providing 16 Jamaicans with a second chance at mobility through prosthetic devices.
The health ministry in a statement on Tuesday, February 13, said the individuals will be provided with the lower limb prosthetic devices under the ‘New Limb, New Life’ initiative.
Cheques valued at J$6,261,400 were presented to Surgix Jamaica Limited and Tutu Prosthetics. Of the total allocation, the Ministry of Health will be contributing J$5,941,400 for the first 16 beneficiaries who will receive limbs from the two suppliers.
An additional donation of J$320,000 came from the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities.
Health minister Dr Christopher Tufton, who was speaking at a handover ceremony at the Sir John Golding Rehabilitation Centre on Tuesday (February 13), stressed that ‘New Limb, New Life’ is part of the ministry’s preventative message, as it seeks to support the rehabilitation of Jamaicans who have lost a limb.
“Rehabilitative services play a pivotal role in our commitment to holistic healthcare. By addressing gaps in service delivery for persons with disabilities, we not only promote well-being but also foster functional independence,” Tufton said.
Some 15 per cent of the world’s population is challenged by disability due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with disabilities being a significant contributor in Jamaica.
“In Jamaica, a staggering 80 per cent of amputations are linked to diabetes, highlighting the urgent need for preventive care and rehabilitative interventions,” Tufton said.
“While we emphasise preventative care and raise awareness around treatment options, we recognize the importance of rehabilitative services in improving individual functioning and enhancing participation in daily activities,” he added.
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