Kingston, Jamaica. Monday, September 16, 2021: Less than two weeks after breaking ground at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) for a field hospital, construction is progressing well.

The Project, aimed at assisting with the surge in the COVID-19 admissions is in the vicinity of the Emergency Medicine and Casualty Division. It aims at providing beds for 48 confirmed and suspected COVID-19 patients. It has seen several teams including sponsors energized and committed to delivering the project within the shortest available time. The construction team has provided a masterplan for the site, along with architectural, structural, infrastructure, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) services and technical support.

Progress thus far on the project, which is expected to be completed by September 27, 2021, is as follows: 

  • The foundation and retaining wall have been constructed creating an area which is being backfilled and compacted to provide a level space adjacent to the existing facility.
  • Preparation is underway for the pouring of a concrete base upon which the hard-walled tents will be placed.
  • A preliminary configuration for 20 container units has been executed in parallel with the delivery on site of the first units anticipated for the week beginning, September 20.

The modular hospital will be equipped to operate autonomously and is entirely created to offer high-quality medical assistance. Throughout the layout process of our field hospital, we have consulted experienced medical professionals and suppliers, to make sure that we offer a practical approach and that our hospital complies with best practices and the latest standards in modern health care. The field hospital is designed to withstand any type of climate and is adaptable to any environment.

The University Hospital is grateful for the generous outpouring of support from over 30 donors and volunteers. However, there is still need for sponsors for tent units and other building and hospital supplies, in cash or kind. Persons or organizations interestedin providing support to this important project are asked to contact Dr Carl Bruce, the hospital’s Medical Chief of Staff at 876-977-2327 or carbruce03@hotmail.com.