The Ministry of Health and Wellness earlier today officially launched the inaugural observation of Healthcare Workers Appreciation Month at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel in Kingston.
The launch event saw the unveiling of the official proclamation, given under the hand of the Governor General of Jamaica, designating the month of July to be celebrated as Healthcare Workers Appreciation Month.
Minister of Health and Wellness Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, in delivering the main address, applauded healthcare workers for their dedicated service, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite the challenges they face within the health system.
“That healthcare workers are deserving of more than a month of celebrations is impatient of debate; and we are working on that – as a Ministry of Health and Wellness, and as a government. In the meantime, Happy Healthcare Workers Appreciation Month to all healthcare workers. We salute you, even as we accelerate efforts to improve your working conditions and provide you with appropriate compensation for your service,” the Minister said.
The month-long celebrations will feature a series of events and activities at the parish, regional and national levels, including the observance of National Healthcare Workers Appreciation Day on Wednesday, July 13.
Other events and activities include church services, family fun days and awards banquets. The Ministry of Health & Wellness is also to launch a competition for the creation of a monument in honour of healthcare workers who died as a result of COVID-19.