Jamaica Issues Emergency Call for Healthcare Volunteers at Black River Hospital

Disclaimer: This is a developing story. Nurse.org will provide updates as additional information becomes available.

Jamaica is calling on doctors and healthcare volunteers to help support critical services at Black River Hospital, and it’s not just doctors who are needed.

Recently, the Jamaica Information Service (JIS) reported a joint appeal from the Jamaica Medical Doctors Association and the Ministry of Health, urging qualified healthcare workers to volunteer at Black River Hospital. The call highlights a shortage of medical staff, including physicians and nurses, who can provide essential care during this period of increased demand.

According to the announcement, interested volunteers must apply through the Jamaican Red Cross, the official body coordinating these efforts. This ensures that all volunteers meet the necessary accreditation and licensing requirements before deployment, helping maintain high standards of care.

While doctors naturally play a critical role, nurses and other healthcare professionals have an important place on Jamaica’s volunteer teams. Whether it’s assisting with patient care, health education, or supporting medical procedures, nurses will find meaningful ways to impact communities in need.

The Ministry of Health also stresses the importance of involving local health authorities in planning volunteer activities. Participants are expected to submit detailed information about the services they will provide and collaborate with parish and regional officials to align with community needs.

Are Nurses Needed In Jamaica?

While the recent official appeal from the Jamaica Medical Doctors Association and Medical Association of Jamaica focuses mainly on volunteer doctors, multiple sources confirm a national call for nurse volunteers as well. The Jamaican Nursing Council has received inquiries from U.S. nurse volunteers wanting to assist. Additionally, posts from the Jamaica Ministry of Health and major news reports highlight urgent needs for nurses and other healthcare workers to provide patient care following the recent hurricane impacts.

• Nurses answer the call here

Volunteers may be placed at Black River Hospital or other facilities, depending on availability and community needs. Shifts can range from 8 to 48 hours, and coordination occurs through official channels such as the Jamaican Red Cross and Ministry of Health.

For more details and to express interest, nurses can contact local volunteer hotlines or the Jamaican Nursing Council. This broad call invites nurses and healthcare staff to contribute to Jamaica’s recovery.

🤔Nurses, share your thoughts in the discussion forum below.