Six health centres in the territory will get a backup power supply thanks to a $250,000 grant sourced recently by the Ministry of Health and Social Development, according to government.
“With the installation of backup power systems, we can ensure the reliable continuity of primary healthcare infrastructure during and after significant disruptions or short-term power outages,” said HSD Permanent Secretary Tasha Bertie.
The grant was secured from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States with the support of the California-based charity Direct Relief under the OECS’ Enhancing Health Infrastructure and Resilience Project, according to government.
“We intend to establish a dependable backup power supply by installing generators at six select health centres,” Ms. Bertie said. “Also we are seeking to upgrade the cold storage and refrigeration infrastructure to guarantee the safe storage of vaccines, pharmaceuticals, blood products, and other temperature-sensitive medical supplies.”
Medical oxygen
The grant will also help ensure adequate redundancy and reliability of medical oxygen supplies at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, according to the permanent secretary.
“By installing an oxygen generation plant at the facility, the project will reduce reliance on imported oxygen, thereby ensuring a consistent and sustainable supply of medical oxygen for patient care, particularly for those suffering from respiratory illnesses during emergencies or disasters,” she said.
During the project, which is expected to conclude at the end of April, representatives from the OECS Secretariat and Direct Relief will visit the territory to monitor progress, according to government.