BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, October 13, 2021 (Press Unit in the Office of the Prime Minister) – The health system in St. Kitts and Nevis received a significant boost today, Wednesday, October 13, 2021, when the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis was officially presented the first of two field hospitals acquired through the Humanitarian Assistance Programme of the United States Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM).
In addition to the 40-bed capacity field hospitals, the United States Government has also generously donated three passenger vehicles and technical support equipment to the twin island Federation.
Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris was among the Government officials in attendance at the handing over ceremony. In his remarks, Prime Minister Harris expressed his gratitude to the United States Government, noting that this donation significantly bolsters the Federation’s health system.
“This field hospital with its additional 40 beds is produced with highest quality of international standards in mind. We have strengthened our health system today not just by the physical structure of this field hospital but also the support and equipment that will make these hospitals run effectively. The field hospital, for example, is equipped with patient rails, intravenous poles, mattresses and a powerful generator. It also has its own plumbing and water treatment system in accordance with the best international standards and practice. It will allow us to deliver air condition services to patients,” Prime Minister Harris said.
The honourable prime minister further noted that the field hospital will also help the country strengthen its health response during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Harris said, “Throughout this pandemic since 2020, we have adopted a life first strategy. Investments like these two field hospitals…are part of the build out of the life first strategy that we have been advocating and represents further continuing efforts to strengthen the health system in St. Kitts and Nevis. The Government will continue to do all within its power to prevent the overwhelming of our health system, regardless of the threat posed.”
“The field hospital will be deployed at the Joseph N. France Hospital and will add to our bed capacity, boosting our ability to fight this deadly virus. It is of note that this health facility provides a negative pressure facility to isolate COVID-19 patients thus conferring another crucial health capability. It is our hope that such a facility will have a positive impact relative to stemming the spread and managing persons with COVID-19,” the prime minister added.
The second field hospital will be stationed in Nevis.
Over the past several days, health practitioners and support staff have been undergoing training in the setting up and disassembling of the field hospitals.
-30-
