The United States Government, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), has delivered J$13 million worth of critically needed hospital supplies, as part of the third tranche of emergency equipment to the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

This donation, which was handed over on Tuesday (March 2), is in support of the Government of Jamaica’s (GOJ) response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The equipment is part of the US$2 million in assistance USAID is providing to Jamaica to fight the pandemic.

Commenting on the latest donation, US Chargé d’Affaires, John McIntyre highlighted that “The United States continues to support the government and people of Jamaica in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. As neighbours, partners, and friends we are committed to helping this nation by providing technical assistance, training, capacity building, health systems strengthening, and life-saving diagnostics and treatment.”

The equipment bolsters the GOJ’s COVID-19 emergency response and directly aids activities that are vital for helping to stem the challenges.

The handover, the third in a series of transfers of critical equipment to the GOJ, adds to the US government- supplied hospital and communication equipment already in use across Jamaica and comes in time to assist the island as COVID-19 hospitalisation rates increase.

USAID’s prior deliveries are already in use across Jamaica. 

The equipment delivered on Tuesday comprises:

• 20 infrared thermometers
• Four emergency transport trolleys
• Five laryngoscopes with blades
• Five multifunction patient monitors
• 18 nebulizers
• Three ECG machines with accessories
• 30 IV drip stands
• Two portable suction machines
• One transport ventilator
• 10 ICU beds

In his remarks, USAID/Jamaica Country Representative Jason Fraser, points out that, “USAID is doing our part as part of the overall American response to the COVID-19 pandemic with decisive action in Jamaica. Our efforts to combat COVID-19 build on decades of United States health assistance to the country.”

In the past 20 years, the United States has provided nearly US$87 million in health and nearly US $619 million total over the past 20 years for Jamaica.

Fraser adds that, “USAID investments are making a difference in the lives and health of the Jamaican people. We stand with Jamaica during their time of need and will continue to do so in the future.”