Dr. Tufton Resignation overdue

Date: November 6, 2023

OBC Radio News has launched an investigation into the state of healthcare in Jamaica, with growing demands for the resignation of Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton. The probe focuses on the severe deficiencies in medical care, including a lack of essential resources such as water, beds, bed linen, and electricity, as well as the alarming shortage of medical equipment and the exodus of doctors from the island. Additionally, a medical waste incinerator on the outskirts of the Hartlands community in St Catherine has further raised concerns about potential health risks and water contamination.

Residents across Jamaica have expressed their frustrations and concerns regarding the deteriorating state of healthcare services. The absence of basic amenities, including critical supplies and infrastructure, has left patients and medical professionals grappling with dire conditions. The shortage of water, beds, and bed linen, coupled with the absence of electricity, has severely impacted the quality of care provided in hospitals and medical facilities.

Compounding these issues, the healthcare system is grappling with a significant shortage of medical equipment, further hampering the ability to deliver adequate care to patients. The departure of doctors from the island has only exacerbated the strain on an already overwhelmed healthcare system, leaving many communities without sufficient access to medical professionals.

In the midst of this healthcare crisis, the Hartlands community in St Catherine is facing an additional predicament. Two years ago, a medical waste incinerator mysteriously appeared in the area, raising concerns among residents. The incinerator, constructed from a container, emits hazardous smoke into the atmosphere, illuminating the skies on certain nights. Worries persist that the toxic fumes may be seeping into the underground water, which is used for irrigation purposes by local farmers.

Ann-Marie Jenkins, interim president of the Hartlands Community Citizens’ Association, has voiced the community’s concerns and demanded immediate answers. “We don’t know if it’s seeping into the underground water, and remember that people do farming here and use irrigation water,” she emphasized, highlighting the potential risks to health and agriculture.

Residents are now calling for a comprehensive investigation into the medical waste incinerator and the implementation of measures to ensure the safety of the community. They are urging the government to intervene swiftly to address the lack of medical care and to provide clarity on the potential risks posed by the incinerator.

Dr. Tufton has acknowledged the challenges faced by the healthcare system but maintains that the government is committed to resolving these issues. However, the growing chorus of demands for his resignation reflects public dissatisfaction with the government’s response and perceived inaction.

OBC Radio News will continue to closely monitor this developing story and advocate for transparency, accountability, and urgent action to address the healthcare crisis and the medical waste concerns faced by the Hartlands community and the wider Jamaican population.

Dr. Jermaine Gordon

Dr. Jermaine Gordon migrated to Florida, U.S in 2009 in his early thirties. From the heart of Kingston Jamaica, Dr. Gordon is the perfect embodiment of former international Fashion Model meets business Savvy Expert. He is a Fashion Model that has hit runways all around the world in over 7 countries. He elevated his passion for Fashion and Modeling into his own brand. The Olanquan brand. This brand stemmed from the blood sweat and tears of Dr. Gordon a young kid that was bullied for the Fashion he wore, who now has his own clothing line designs, Fashion Show and magazines and more loved by hundreds of thousands worldwide. He not only has a great eye for design but also a great heart and doesn't forget his roots which is why he started The Olanquan Feed The Kidz foundation to give back to his community. Dr. Gordon, now rubbing shoulders with the movers and shakers in society. They include Kimora Lee-Simmons an American model, Curtis Jackson aka Fifty Cent and former playwright Ralph Holness. " At age 17, I became a member of the Area Youth Foundation- a brilliant avenue for at-risk youths to express themselves through drama. Jermaine wrote a script for his group which won the Best Award. Ralph Holness a special guest at the event spotted Jermaine's acting talent and quickly drafted him into his production Balm Yard Affairs. He also played lead roles in Ruth Samuels, Hell A Pop A Yard and Hugh King's Night Work The opportunity took the young actor to three different countries with 700 shows to his credit. He was then in his early twenties. He further his academic studies receiving a Doctorate in Divinity at the Universal church in Seattle, Washington. He also did a diplomatic course at the University of London; later flew to Germany mastering a global governance course which covers management, a leadership and team development. Today, Dr. Gordon is the Founder and C.O.O. of Olanquan Broadcasting Company (OBC), 'He hope this will give a second chance to the forgotten voices.

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