Ten hospitals will benefit from a grant approved by the National Health Fund (NHF) for physiotherapy equipment valued at $22 million. They are: Savanna-la-Mar, Cornwall Regional, St. Ann's Bay, Spanish Town, Kingston Public, Mandeville, May Pen and National Chest hospitals; the Bustamante Hospital for Children and the Sir John Golding Rehabilitation Centre.

Shortage of equipment has routinely resulted in long waiting times for persons to receive treatment. This affects the patient's ability to quickly return to regular and productive activities and impacts negatively on the family and on the national economy.

The recipient hospitals will see significant improvements in turnaround times for patient treatment. Island Coordinator for Physiotherapy Services in the Ministry of Health, Mr. Nicolas Ford, is happy with the grant and commented, "It is timely and will provide motivation for staff and help to deliver improved quality of care to the nation."

About 26,000 persons annually access physiotherapy services in the public health sector. The need for physiotherapy usually arises as a consequence of diseases and injury.

Clients are first evaluated and several methods are employed to address impairments, limitations to function and disabilities. Common conditions treated include: ortho-paedic conditions such as fractures and dislocations, low back pain; neurological conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury and Parkinson's disease; cardiopulmonary and circulatory conditions such as peripheral vascular disease; arthritic conditions; corrective tissue conditions such as burns and wounds; sports injuries and workplace injuries.

The NHF seeks to reduce the burden on health care in Jamaica and has an ongoing programme to support improvements in health services. Several hospitals have already benefited from grants for various projects.