Tufton says Jamaica Cuba Eye Care Programme will continue despite end of Cuba deal

Hundreds of Jamaicans who rely on the Jamaica Cuba Eye Care Programme for sight saving surgeries are being assured that the service will continue, even as the long standing technical cooperation agreement between Kingston and Havana comes to an end.

Health and Wellness Minister Dr Christopher Tufton said the Government has no plans to scrap the popular programme, which has helped thousands of Jamaicans regain or improve their vision over the years.

Speaking during a hybrid press briefing on Monday, Tufton acknowledged the significant role played by the Cuban medical team, which currently supports the programme at St Joseph's Hospital.

"We know many Jamaicans have benefited from this, and it has been driven primarily by this agreement involving the Cuban workers. The intention is not to discontinue the programme," Tufton said.

The programme is currently supported by 18 Cuban healthcare workers who have been assisting with eye surgeries and related care.

According to Tufton, the Cuban team will continue performing procedures until March 20, but services will be limited to surgery and post operative care for patients already scheduled.

"What this means is that surgical procedures for patients who are already scheduled and follow up care for patients who have already undergone eye surgery and retina related post operative treatment and monitoring... those procedures will take place," he explained.

Approximately 140 patients are currently on the list to undergo surgery before the programme transitions.

The Health Minister is also urging patients who have already received treatment to attend their scheduled follow up appointments to ensure proper recovery.

Meanwhile, Tufton said the Government is already putting alternative arrangements in place to ensure the programme continues even after the Cuban team's involvement ends.

He noted that this may involve using local resources as well as outsourcing some services to the private sector, an approach that has already received Cabinet approval due to the programme's importance.

"We are working on alternative arrangements to ensure the continuity of the screening programme through a combination of our internal capacity, as well as through some outsourcing arrangements," Tufton said.

- JIS

We want to hear from you! Email us at star@gleanerjm.com and follow @thejamaicastar on Instagram and on X @JamaicaStar and on Facebook: @TheJamaicaStar, or on Whatsapp @ 876-550-250