OCHO RIOS, St Ann — After several years of operating from a dilapidated two-bedroom house, which did not have the required capacity needed for a Type II health centre, the Exchange Health Centre now has a new home.

The new centre was constructed at a cost of $56 million which included sewage disposal, parking facilities and perimeter fencing, Minister of Health Dr Fenton Ferguson told those in attendance at the official opening ceremony last Friday.

Scores of residents, political representatives and employees of the North East Regional Health Authority turned out at the facility to celebrate what some described as a historic moment for the community, located on the outskirts of the bustling tourist town of Ocho Rios.

The project was funded by the CHASE Fund and the National Health Fund. According to Dr Ferguson, approximately $32.9 million came from the CHASE Fund and another $23 million from the NHF. He explained that of the total cost, $10.9 million will go towards procuring equipment for the health centre.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we are moving from a situation where the previous structure was described as dilapidated, inappropriate and was associated with various problems, into a brand new facility. I know that the community members and the health team are extremely happy today with this development which has been long in coming,” Dr Ferguson stated.

Dr Ferguson also called on residents to protect the facility. “This health centre was built for you and all we ask in return is that you utilise it well and ensure that it is not vandalised nor robbed,” he stated.

Ferguson reminded residents that they will no longer have to go all the way to Ocho Rios to access quality health care services.

“You will no longer be subjected to unsuitable conditions which, among other things, could compromise your privacy as you now have a more comfortable structure and surrounding,” he added.

Bentley Steer, parish manager of the St Ann Health Department, said that the two-bedroom structure which housed the facility previously, lacked the capacity to provide services usually offered by a Type II health facility. He explained that many people had to travel to Ocho Rios to access some services, putting a strain on that health centre.

However, in addition to the regular services, the facility will offer dental services which are not offered at other Type II facilities, said Billy Heaven, CEO of the CHASE Fund.

Steer said that the new facility will open its door to the public tomorrow, April 13. However, Steer, who chaired the opening ceremony, explained that it will begin operations with primarily childcare and maternal care because the centre is still in the process of procuring equipment.

“Additional staff is being recruited and equipment is being procured. As soon as this is done, other services will be offered,” he stated.

The Jamaica National Community Council and Tingles Distributors have contributed towards the furnishing of the facility.

Leon Gordon, chairman of the board of management of NERHA, also encouraged residents to ensure the facility is taken care of.

“We exchange an inadequate building for an adequate one,” Gordon said of the community’s transformation.

Also calling on residents and employees to care for the facility and to ensure that quality service is provided was Member of Parliament for North East St Ann, Shahine Robinson. She also called on residents to exercise patience when they go into these facilities.

“I urge you to take care of it as it takes care of you,” she stated.

Residents were overjoyed that their community finally has a new health centre.

“We glad for it man. Today is a great day to have the opening… wonderful. Normally mi have to go Ochi. But now that this open mi no have to go,” said Exchange resident Zelpha Scott.

“Is a long time we need something like this,” stated Alvin Harris, another resident.

Dr Ferguson also used Friday’s ceremony to announce that a new health centre will be constructed in Runaway Bay, North West St Ann, this financial year.