JNF Hospital Bolsters Emergency Services with Newly Employed EMTs

The Joseph Nathaniel France General Hospital (JNF) in Basseterre, St. Kitts, has significantly bolstered its emergency services with the addition of eleven new staff members. These individuals, comprising three orderlies, six Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), and two paramedics, successfully completed a rigorous eight-week EMT Basic Training program earlier this year. This marks a historic milestone for the hospital, as it represents the first time paramedics have been integrated into the institution’s emergency medical services.

The eight-week training program, initiated in mid-February, was spearheaded by the In-service Department of JNF General Hospital under the guidance of senior EMT Officer, Mr. Delbert Wilkes. All eleven participants achieved certification, underscoring the program’s effectiveness and the trainees’ dedication. The integration of these new staff members is being implemented in stages. Initially, the six EMTs and three orderlies have been onboarded, with the intention of eventually transitioning the orderlies into EMT roles as well. This phased approach allows for a smoother integration and optimal utilization of the newly acquired skills within the existing system.

The inclusion of paramedics represents a significant leap forward for JNF’s emergency medical services. Dr. Jenson Morton, Director of Health Institutions within the Ministry of Health, emphasized the groundbreaking nature of this development, noting that paramedics have never before been part of the hospital’s emergency response system. While initially stationed at JNF, these professionals will eventually be deployed island-wide, ensuring a more comprehensive and robust emergency medical response across St. Kitts.

The EMT Department at JNF, while having faced challenges in the past, has consistently delivered vital services to the public. This influx of new personnel, characterized by their energy, dynamism, and qualifications, is anticipated to further strengthen the department’s capabilities. Dr. Morton expressed confidence in the new team’s potential, highlighting their diverse backgrounds and qualifications, which range from marine training to firefighting experience. This diverse skillset will undoubtedly enrich the team’s ability to respond to a wide range of emergency situations.

The eleven new staff members represent a blend of local talent and individuals from further afield, including Dominica, Nigeria, and Cuba. This international representation adds a layer of global experience and perspective to the team. The new recruits include Mr. Nigel Brandy, Mr. Degen Elliot, and Mr. Yasmani Lopez as orderlies; Mr. Rowen Trotman, Mr. Jervon Bonnie, Mrs. Gabrielle Williams, Ms. Saidah Liburd, Ms. Desanna Whyte, and Mr. Janover Noa as EMTs; and Mr. Jorge Iribar and Mr. Opealuwa Ostiye as paramedics.

The Ministry of Health has a forward-looking vision for these new recruits. Their current EMT Basic certification is seen as a stepping stone towards further professional development. The Ministry intends to provide ongoing training opportunities, enabling these individuals to progress to EMT Intermediate and eventually paramedic certifications. This commitment to continuous learning and advancement will ensure that JNF’s emergency medical services maintain a high level of competency and responsiveness. The investment in these individuals not only strengthens the hospital’s immediate capacity but also builds a sustainable foundation for the future of emergency medical care in St. Kitts. This proactive approach to professional development underscores the Ministry’s dedication to providing the best possible care to the people of St. Kitts. The long-term vision ensures that the emergency medical services will continue to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs of the community.

The enhancement of emergency services at JNF General Hospital through the addition of these eleven trained professionals represents a significant investment in the health and well-being of the people of St. Kitts. The introduction of paramedics, a first for the institution, marks a major advancement in pre-hospital care. The diverse backgrounds and qualifications of the new recruits, coupled with the Ministry’s commitment to ongoing training and development, promise a more robust and responsive emergency medical system for the island. The strategic deployment of these professionals across St. Kitts will ensure that more people have access to timely and effective emergency medical care, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes for the community. This initiative reflects a proactive approach to healthcare, focusing not only on immediate needs but also on building a sustainable framework for the future of emergency medical services in St. Kitts.