Dr. Fenton Ferguson, Minister of Health met with his Permanent Secretary and Divisional Heads yesterday (January 9, 2012) at the Ministry’s head office on King Street. In his first session with the senior team Dr. Ferguson said that health ministries have an importance role to play in all jurisdictions. He noted that the people of Jamaica were running out of patience and that there is a need to move swiftly to get things going. The Minister mentioned some of his priorities which included the completion of the tobacco legislation to address the issue of tobacco control. “This is a matter of great importance to me when I consider the adverse effects of tobacco smoking as well as passive smoking,” said Dr. Ferguson.

The Minister instructed his team to undertake a SWOT analysis of the health sector and to proceed with the introduction of the Government of Jamaica health card which will improve the system of billing private health insurance companies. The Minister also indicated his intention of maintaining a strong presence on the ground visiting health facilities, engaging staff as well as patients.

Dr. Fenton Ferguson was sworn in as Minister of Health on Friday, January 6, 2012. He is a dental surgeon by profession who has worked in that capacity for several years in the parish of St. Thomas. Dr. Ferguson studied at Howard University in Washington D.C.

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Contact: MOH, Public Relations Unit Tel: 967-1561

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