The Opposition Spokesman on Health, Dr Alfred Dawes, is raising serious questions for the Ministry of Health and the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA), following disturbing revelations that a single surgical drill purchased for the Bustamante Hospital for Children cost more than the refurbishment of four operating theatres at the Kingston Public Hospital (KPH).

The orthopaedic drill was purchased by SERHA at a reported cost of $31,467,708.00, including 2 years of maintenance. In comparison, the recent refurbishment of four operating theatres at KPH, which includes mould treatment and other critical repairs, is set to be completed this week at a cost of $24 million.

“How can the government justify paying more for one piece of surgical equipment than it costs to refurbish four operating theatres in the island’s largest hospital?” asked Dawes. “Something is rotten in the state of Jamaica.”

Industry sources have indicated that the same drill, with identical specifications, can be sourced on the open market for approximately $5 million.

“There is no reasonable explanation for this kind of price disparity—especially in a public health system that is under immense strain and with operating theatres across the island sitting idle. And let us be clear—no service or maintenance package can justify this astronomical price tag,” he added.

The Opposition is therefore asking the Ministry of Health and SERHA to provide the following information to the public:

1. A full explanation of the procurement process that led to this purchase.
2. Whether any additional drills have been procured since, and at what price.

At a time when operating theatres remain out of service at several major hospitals—including the sole theatre at Annotto Bay Hospital and two of four at St Ann’s Bay Hospital,  the public deserves transparency and accountability. 

“The taxpayers of Jamaica have not received value for their money. The country deserves answers, and the Ministry of Health must provide them,” Dr Dawes said.