CONGRATULATORY MESSAGES
I extend my sincere congratulations to the Heart Institute of the Caribbean on this your first anniversary. Your entrance into the private health sector has resulted in improved access to health care for the people of Jamaica which is a fundamental goal of Jamaica's public policy.
The health profile of the country is similar to that of developed countries with lifestyle illnesses, including heart diseases, being among the main health problems affecting Jamaicans. The Heart Institute of Caribbean is therefore playing an important role in providing services to Jamaicans who would be otherwise forced to seek care abroad.
The national goal of achieving health care for all will not be realized without meaningful participation from the private sector and some level of public/private partnership. It is therefore commendable that you have demonstrated the perspicacity to explore the business opportunities that are available in the health sector.
I once again congratulate you and wish you well in the years ahead.
P.J. Patterson
Former
Prime Minister of Jamaica
March 13, 2006
It is my pleasure to congratulate the Heart Institute of the Caribbean, as it celebrates its 1st Anniversary. The immense pride your organization must feel in achieving this milestone is understandable, as many ofus are aware of the fact that the first year of any business is oftentimes very, if not the most challenging.
The innovativeness and foresight displayed by the individuals integral to the formation of this organization are impressive. Statistics reveal that heart disease is one of the leading causes of death amongst men and women in Jamaica and therest of the Caribbean. Data from the Ministry of Health reveal that in 2000, approximately 2,640 persons died from various forms of heart disease in Jamaica. By 2004, this figure had increased by 37% to 3,621.
Declines in the crude and birth rates have resulted in an aging population, with concurrent increases in chronic diseases, chief amongst them being heart disease. This therefore highlights the critical need for an organization such as yours.
It is heartening to see a new trend emerging, whereby persons are striving to lead healthier lifestyles, through proper exercise and dieting. I implore those of us who have not caught on to this trend, to do so. We must take our health seriously and avail ourselves of the crucial information on this chronic disease.
I wish for the Heart Institute of the Caribbean continued growth and success in the ensuing years.
Bruce Golding
Prime Minister of Jamaica
March 20, 2006
The Heart Institute of the Caribbean has been making an outstanding contribution to the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and other medical problems in the region.
It has taken the unprecedented step to establish a comprehensive institute with advanced technological equipment for diagnostic purposes. The institute is staffed with highly qualified medical professionals. Both the professional staff and technical equipment are further enhanced by the splendid facility in which they operate. Taken together the Heart Institute of the Caribbean has established a first world facility in Jamaica. I say this after having toured the facilities of the Institute myself. It was an eye-opening experience.
I anticipate that this Institute will be entering the global market for health services shortly as it has the prerequisites to meet the high standards required.
I wish for the Heart Institute of the Caribbean success in their future endeavours.
Edward Seaga
Senior Research Fellow at the University of the West Indies
Former Prime Minister of Jamaica
March 13, 2006
The Heart Institute of the Caribbean has made a significant difference to the quality of life for many Jamaicans in its first year of operation. By providing first class, first world technology and services to those with cardiovascular conditions, the Heart Institute has negated the need to access this kind of care abroad.
In fact, the Institute has not only given our people access, they have provided the same/ comparable quality of care at a significant cost savings, based on similar procedures in the USA and Canada.
I applaud the vision, foresight and nationalistic spirit that led the team to decide to contribute to building our country in this way. It demonstrates that if the Government and private sector work together, they can complement each other and it will rebound to the benefit of Jamaicans, in terms of quality health care.
The Contribution, service and commitment given, are worthy of emulation.
Congratulations! And best wishes for continued success.
John A. Junor
Immediate Past Minister of Health, Jamaica
March 14, 2006
It
is with great pleasure that I congratulate the Heart Institute of the
Caribbean on its first anniversary. As an innovative and dynamic
healthcare center, the Institute fills a void long felt in the
Caribbean. Those in need of expert diagnosis and treatment of
cardiovascular conditions no longer need to travel outside the region.
This is a singular achievement.
As a leader in the health field it is appropriate that the Heart
Institute chose a leading nation of the Caribbean, Jamaica, for its base
of operations. The Institute boasts exceptional staff with impressive
credentials. I am particularly heartened by the number of staff who
furthered their education and skills in the United States and have
returned to the region to share their gifts.
Once again, congratulations to the Heart Institute of the Caribbean and
all success in your mission of "Saving Hearts...Saving Lives".
Ambassador Brenda LaGrange Johnson
Embassy of the United States of America
Kingston, Jamaica, W.I.
March 13, 2006
I am writing to extend my congratulations to the Heart Institute of the Caribbean (HIC) on its first anniversary. i am aware of the challenges faced by any institution in its early days of operation. The HIC has met its challenges with determination and vigour. This is noteworthy.
The HIC is fast establishing itself as the leader in cardiac care. By improving the access to and quality of cardiovascular care for the people of the Caribbean, the HIc is addressing one of the most serious health issues in the region. Canada has been supportive of efforts to improve health care in the Caribbean, and many of the doctors in the region have studied in Canada. This includes HIC, and we hope that collaborative efforts continue and grow between HIC and those researching heart disease in Canada.
I wish the HIC all the best in its second year of operation, and beyond. Keep on 'Saving Hearts...Saving Lives'.
Bryan E. Burton
Acting High Commissioner
Canadian High Commission
Kingston, Jamaica
March 24, 2006
The Heart Foundation of Jamaica welcomes the opportunity to join in the celebration of the first anniversary of The Heart Institute of the Caribbean. The wide-range of cardiac related services offered by the Institute have been most welcome and the professional care provided by the mebers of staff has been exemplary.
The local contribution of the Institute to cardiac care has been well received and the potential is there for services to the wider Caribbean. The availability of such services further underscores the importance of screening for early detection of the various cardiac related disorders which allow for greater use of the Institute and a more effective management of these disorders.
THE HEART
FOUNDATION OF JAMAICA
Knox E Hagley CD MB FRCP FRCPE FACP FACC FFPHM
Chairman
March 13, 2006
The Heart Institute of the Caribbean (HIC) is a historic and significant addition to the medical facilities in the Caribbean region and Jamaica. Destiny has brought about a meaningful conjunction of personnel and resources at an appropriate time in Jamaica. Compassionate caring, superior clinical skills, and state-of-the-art technology constitute a combination which many should emulate. I foresee some important implications for medical training and health tourism in Kingston.
This facility is a tremendous asset to Jamaica in more ways than we presently visualize. The team work and coperation are admirable.
I convey my warm congratulations and good wishes for continuing success on this first anniversary.
Dr. the Hon. John
A.S. Hall, OJ, CD, M.B., B.S.(LOND.), F.R.C.P., F.A.C.P., F.A.A.N
President Emeritus
Medical Association of Jamaica
March 13, 2006
The Heart Institute of the Caribbean is undoubtedly the most significant investment in the field of health care in 21st century jamaica.
To provide locally the first world diagnostic and treatment facilities previously available only overseas, is a major step in saving lives and reducing the costs associated with cardiac illness.
Already, many Jamaicans have benefited from the state-of-the-art equipment and excellent team of doctors and nurses at 23 Balmoral Avenue. The persons who identified the need and put together the financing for this institute deserve our heartfelt thanks and commendation.
As you begin the second year of service to the community, may the flame of love forever burn in your hearts and guide you along the way.
Errol Lee
Region Iv Chairman
District 60b
Lions Clubs International
March 14, 2006
'I always feel welcomed.....I feel at home at the Heart Institute. HIC
is a state of the art facility and I feel they offer the best possible
care in Jamaica'.
Mr. Chris Zacca
Deputy Chairman of the Sandals Group
President, Private Sector Organization of Jamaica
"The Heart Institute is a
world class facility. The doctors and staff are excellent. I know that I
am in very safe hands at the Heart Institute. I feel blessed"
Mrs. Rita Marley
Wife of late Reggae Legend, Bob Marley
President, Bob Marley Foundation
“For years my father, Josiah, has traveled to the island filled with worry that there was no facility available on the island for patients like himself, having a Guidant Heart Defibrillator Implant.. But, with much gratitude to a friend we learned of the Heart Institute of the Caribbean.” Your team showed an overwhelming commitment in delivering the highest quality of care and to extend the reach of care to my parents in a way that I must say "I’m proud." Bravo!!”
Andrea Hoilett—Wilmot
Canada
“Let me first say how commendable it is that the Jamaica as well as the rest of the Caribbean now have at their disposal a first class, state of the art cardiac facility. The service which I continue to receive at the Heart Institute is second to none.”
Byron Lee
Band Leader
Byron Lee and the Dragonaires
“The Heart Institute of the Caribbean in undoubtedly the most significant investment in the field of Health Care in 21ST century Jamaica.
To provide locally the first world diagnostic and treatment facilities previously available only overseas, is a major step in saving lives and reducing the costs associated with cardiac illness.
As you begin the second year of service to the community, may the flame of love forever burn in your hearts and guide you along the way.”
Errol Lee
Region IV Chairman
District 60B
Lions International Club
“Everybody is so nice and professional at the Heart Institute, it takes the hassle out of traveling.”
Antoinette
Johnson
Cayman Islands
“The staff of the HIC under the leadership of the distinguished Dr. Ernest Madu is the epitome of courtesy, competence and professionalism. I heartily recommend their services.”
Mr. Ryland T.
Campbell
Chairman/ Group President & CEO
Capital & Credit Financial Group
“The Heart Institute of the Caribbean literally saved my life. I am grateful that such a facility exists in Jamaica. The service which I continue to receive from the Heart Institute is of the highest standard.”
Mr. Haresh
Khemlani
Owner
Royale Jewellers
“My clients no longer have to do their executive profiles overseas, with the highly computerized facilities, cutting edge technology and quality doctors available at The Caribbean Heart Institute.”
Mr. Dennis
Charley
Director
Lawe Insurance Company Ltd.
“I was so impressed with the testing equipment at the Heart Institute of the Caribbean that I immediately recommended the institute to about five of my friends who went there the very next day. I feel very reassured knowing that if anything were to go wrong, in terms of my cardiovascular health, I could immediately call on my cardiologist at the Heart Institute.”
David Cordoza
“Having been to similar institutions in Florida, I can say that the services offered by the Heart Institute of the Caribbean are easily comparable and are of the highest standards. I am grateful for the establishment of this center as I can now have my regular tests conducted without having to travel overseas.”
Mr. Basil
R. Phillips
Managing Director
Phil’s Incorporated Limited
“I am very impressed with the facility & I am also very happy to know that people no longer have to wait up to 3 months to receive testing from public facilities. The Heart Institute of the Caribbean complements what existed here in the island before while providing services that didn’t exist like Nuclear Stress Testing. The staff is cool.”
Ray Smith
Cinematographer
“Excellent!
Humanitarian!
Very Well Equipped!
The personnel are professional above reproach!
Congratulations.”
Mr. Wesley Levy