Jenny Daniel, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, provided an important update on the full commissioning of the St. Jude Hospital.
In an official ceremony held last year, the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Nutrition handed over the St. Jude Hospital at the Augier site. The hospital is currently in the process of fully commissioning its healthcare services, which involves a rigorous quality assurance activity.
During the update, PS Jenny Daniel emphasized the significance of this commissioning process.
“This quality assurance is essential to ensure that the systems installed at the hospital are functioning optimally and meet the expected standards of service,” she stated.
Daniel elaborated on the systems involved, including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and IT, all critical for the efficient operation of the hospital.
“In healthcare, quality must always be our top priority. We need to ensure that the systems in place can deliver the best possible health services to the public,” she added.
The commissioning process involves testing various systems and equipment, validating their performance, and training staff at St. Jude Hospital to ensure they are fully prepared to provide necessary services.
Daniel reassured that although the commissioning phase may seem calm, it is a vital exercise that ensures a fully operational hospital offering high-quality patient care and equips staff to handle all medical cases effectively.
“We’re currently conducting a lot of activities at the site—installing equipment, testing systems, and validating installations,” she said.
To support the commissioning of St. Jude Hospital, the Ministry of Health, directed by the Cabinet of Ministers, has engaged Consultant Health Planner Dr. Xysta Edmund. Her role is to provide guidance and technical expertise, ensuring collaboration among the Ministry of Health, St. Jude Hospital, the National Steering Committee, commissioning committees, and other stakeholders. This collaborative approach is crucial for the hospital’s successful opening.
In addition, the Ministry offers technical support through its corporate planning unit, the office of the Chief Medical Officer, and the communications unit to facilitate a smooth commissioning process.
“Members of the senior management team at the Ministry also participate in the commissioning committee, providing administrative and technical support,” Daniel said.
Timeliness is critical for the project, and Daniel assured that efforts are made to minimize delays. The commissioning committee comprises key figures, including the Permanent Secretary, Chief Medical Officer, Medical Officer of Health, and members of various units to guide the hospital’s transition effectively. Regular contact and support for the hospital remain a priority for the Ministry. They also coordinate with external agencies such as the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Economic Development.
Photo Credit: Voice
As units of St. Jude Hospital transition in phases, the Ministry is committed to completing the commissioning process so the hospital can serve the southern region of the island effectively.
Daniel reported that since the handover of the hospital in November 2025, the Physiotherapy Unit has fully transitioned to the new site. All individuals accessing physiotherapy services now do so at the St. Jude Hospital (Augier site).
Additionally, the Administrative and Finance Units are now operational at the new site, with activities commencing at the Laundry and plans to start in the kitchen area soon. Efforts are also underway to expedite the commissioning of the dialysis unit.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Nutrition continues to work diligently to ensure a successful transition and the provision of essential healthcare services at the St. Jude Hospital.