RESIDENTS of La Ressource, Dennery, and surrounding communities are celebrating the long-awaited reopening of the La Ressource Wellness Centre. Government officials and representatives from the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs gathered to mark this milestone, underscoring the administration’s commitment to expanding access to quality healthcare services.
The newly reopened facility is designed to improve patient care, safety, and accessibility, ensuring that residents receive high-quality healthcare in a modern, well-equipped environment. The centre will offer a wide range of services, including primary care, maternal and child health, wellness programs, and specialized medical services tailored to meet community needs.
Speaking at the ceremony, Shawn Edward, Parliamentary Representative for Dennery North, emphasized that this initiative forms part of a broader development strategy aimed at transforming the region. “For decades, this facility has served as the premier healthcare centre for the valley, catering to a wide catchment area that includes Au Leon, Gadette, and surrounding communities in Dennery North and South. Today, we are not only reinstating this essential facility but also expanding the range of services offered, most notably, the introduction of dental services. This is a significant step forward in the comprehensive development plan for Dennery North.”
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sharon Belmar-George outlined the extensive services now available at the wellness centre, emphasizing its role in preventative and primary healthcare. “The La Ressource Wellness Centre will provide maternal and child healthcare services, immunizations, sexual and reproductive health, general medical services, cancer screenings, mental health care, and chronic disease management. Additionally, residents will have access to specialist clinics, podiatry, pharmacy, dental care, nutrition counseling, wound management, and new phlebotomy services. These services will be delivered by highly trained medical professionals, ensuring that community health needs are met efficiently.”
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Ms. Jenny Daniel, highlighted the critical role of infrastructure in ensuring the delivery of effective healthcare services. “Infrastructure is a key determinant of healthcare efficiency, accessibility, and patient safety. The redevelopment and reopening of the La Ressource Wellness Centre have been a priority for the Ministry, particularly after the fire that disrupted services.
This reopening represents a significant step in restoring quality healthcare within proximity to the residents,” she noted. Minister for Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs Moses Jn. Baptiste also commended the dedication of healthcare workers and reiterated the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to advancing Universal Health Coverage through training and development.
“I sincerely thank our healthcare workers, nurses, health aides, security personnel, and nursing assistants who play a crucial role in delivering quality care. Through continued training and collaboration with medical professionals, we remain committed to improving healthcare delivery in Saint Lucia.”