Biomedical expands healthcare footprint with new collection centre in Drax Hall, St. Ann

Announces Strategic Partnership with GK One

Caledonia Medical Laboratory (Biomedical) has expanded its national network with the official opening of its 52nd Collection Centre in Drax Hall, St. Ann, reinforcing its commitment to making quality laboratory testing and diagnostic healthcare more accessible to Jamaicans.

The new facility, which began serving the community in June 2026, was officially commemorated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 14. The expansion represents another milestone in Biomedical’s continued investment in delivering reliable, high-quality laboratory services across the island.

Speaking at the launch, Biomedical’s Chief Executive Officer, Helen Christian, said the decision to establish a presence in the rapidly growing Drax Hall community reflects the company’s mission to improve access to affordable healthcare.

“Our decision was guided by one simple objective: to make quality laboratory testing more convenient for the people who live and work in this area. We believe that no one should have to travel long distances to access dependable diagnostic services, and we are proud to bring Biomedical closer to the communities we serve,” Ms Christian said.

She noted that the expansion comes at a critical time, as Jamaica continues to face a growing burden of chronic non-communicable diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers, many of which develop silently before symptoms become apparent. She stressed that early detection through regular health screening remains one of the most effective tools for improving health outcomes.

Christian also acknowledged the support of the medical community and corporate partners.

“We value the confidence placed in us by the physicians, specialists, hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers who rely on our services every day to support clinical decision-making. We are equally grateful to our corporate partners and businesses that continue to prioritise employee wellness through health screening programmes,” she said.

Strategic Partnership with GK One

The launch also marked the introduction of a strategic partnership between Biomedical and GK One, the digital financial platform of the GraceKennedy Group. Through the partnership, GK One cardholders will receive a five per cent discount on Biomedical’s Executive Profile when they pay using their GK One card.

“Improving lives is more than just the financial services that we provide,” said Anika Crawford, Product Owner, GK Financial Group. “We also believe that it’s about creating meaningful partnerships that deliver value and improve access to essential services; because health is one of our greatest personal investments.” 

Serving the Community

The Biomedical Drax Hall Collection Centre, located at Annex A, Knutsford Business Centre, is now fully operational and offers a comprehensive range of laboratory and diagnostic testing services. The facility is open Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Biomedical Drax Hall is an addition to the two other locations in St. Ann, located at the Taj Mahal Shopping Centre and Main Street in Ocho Rios.

As part of the opening ceremony, Biomedical made its Impact Recognition Presentation to the Jonathan Grant High School’s Home Economics Department and teacher, Sanjae Stevenson, recognising their meaningful contribution to student development and education. Mr Stevenson was recognised for the positive impact he has made on his students by fostering an engaging, inclusive, and supportive classroom environment where they feel valued, encouraged, and motivated.

The recognition included a complimentary Biomedical Executive Profile for Mr Stevenson through his GK One membership, as well as learning equipment to support the continued growth and development of the department and its students.