Dominica: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has officially inaugurated a new Accident and Emergency Operating Theatre at the Dominica-China Friendship Hospital. This state-of-the art operating theatre has marked a major milestone in the transformation of healthcare system of the country. The facility was made possible through the generous support of the Maria Holder Memorial Trust and a long-standing partner in development of the nation.
PM Skerrit described this project as an investment in people, in the right to quality healthcare and in the ability as a nation to respond quickly and effectively to medical emergencies. He mentioned that the new operating theatre reflects upon the strategic vision of the government to modernise healthcare infrastructure and improve the service delivery across the island.
Continuous Support by Maria Holder Memorial Trust
Considering this achievement, Prime Minister Skerrit extended gratitude to the Maria Holder Memorial Trust for its unwavering support and partnership since 2015. The Trust has previously invested in early childhood education facilities, youth development centres and community programs across Dominica.
Its continued engagement, especially after disasters such as Tropical Storm Erika and Hurricane Maria, reflects what Dr. Skerrit described as a spirit of compassion and solidarity that has strengthened the resilience of the nation.
PM Skerrit officially announced that the new operating theatre will be named as ‘The Maria Holder Memorial Trust Operating Theatre’, in recognition of the consistent generosity of the Trust and shared commitment to national development.
Strengthening Dominica’s Healthcare Infrastructure
The new operating theatre forms part of Dominica’s broader agenda to build a modern, efficient and accessible healthcare system. Over these past few years, the government has completed the Marigot Hospital which established 13 new health and wellness centres and invested in training and technology to support healthcare professionals.
Dr. Skerrit emphasised that health is not a privilege but a right for every Dominican. The continuous investments by the government aim to ensure that all citizens, regardless of location or income, can access affordable and dependable medical services.
Advanced Equipment for Improved Emergency Response
The facility is equipped with advanced anesthesia machines, orthopedic extensions, portable X-ray and ultrasound equipment and point-of-care diagnostic technology. These will help in doing life-saving surgeries immediately, will eliminate the delays caused by transferring patients to other departments.
Skerrit said that this new operating theatre will save lives, which means faster interventions, better outcomes and greater confidence in the healthcare system.
He recognised the management and engineering teams of the Dominica Hospitals Authority and the Ministry of Health for their professionalism and dedication in executing the project.
Prime Minister urged citizens to take pride in the facility and to continue supporting mission of building a healthier, stronger and more resilient Dominica.