The Government of Dominica has engaged a Canadian-based firm to manage the transition of health services to the new National Hospital.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has said that the first of seven phases of the National Hospital will be complete by the end of May. The construction is undertaken by the People’s Republic of China.
Health Minister Dr. Kenneth Darroux told a press briefing late last week that Inter-Health Canada will guide the process.
“They came recommended highly by PAHO, a Canadian firm Inter-Health Canada we’ve had very interesting discussion with them over the past few days where they are now going to provide consultancy services.”
He went on that there is a certain level of expertise required for the organization of such a hospital which are not currently available in Dominica, and contrary to popular belief, it is far from just placing beds and equipment into a room.
Dr. Darroux explained that a new administrative structure will also be introduced.
He detailed that the movement from HMD and public service controlled hospital to a Outbound Control CEO would require some legal assistance and also guidance and input with the Public Service Union.
Darroux strongly believed that this was the recommended way forward as per control of the overall health services. He stated that the government ad the Ministry of Health will play an active role in health care at the new hospital however the Ministry will not be directly involved in the day to day runnings.
Chief Personnel Officer Cecilia Carr confirmed at the press briefing that new legislation will need to be introduced to guide the new administrative structure.
