KPH surgeries delayed as central AC failure affects operating theatres

Kingston Public Hospital is dealing with interruptions to its surgery schedule after central air-conditioning equipment broke down, causing several operations to be put off and leaving two operating theatres working under capacity.

The hospital said the problem is linked to old infrastructure, including the main cooling system used by key surgical theatres. Because of the fault, staff have been unable to keep the temperature and air conditions at the level required for safe procedures, so non-emergency operations have had to be stopped and booked again.

The setback has added more pressure to one of Jamaica's busiest public hospitals, where surgery waiting lists were already heavy. In a statement yesterday, KPH said urgent cases are still being given first attention, while medical teams adjust rosters and advise affected patients when fresh dates are settled.

Chief Executive Officer Dwayne Francis said the hospital understands the burden placed on people who were preparing for surgery. "We fully recognise the impact these delays have had on our patients and their families, particularly those awaiting elective surgical procedures. We understand the anxiety, inconvenience, and disruption that postponed surgeries may cause, and we sincerely apologise to all affected individuals for the challenges experienced during this period," he said.