The Code Care programme will cost government over one billion dollars.

Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton gave the figure in parliament on Tuesday.

Code care is designed to reduce wait time for elective surgeries, increase the number of surgeries done by targeting, 2000 operations over a year.

The programme has 5 components; operating theatre rehabilitation, public private partnership for use of private theatres, procurement of surgical equipment and supplies, increase staffing for surgeries, as well as project management.

In responding to questions from the opposition, Dr Tufton outlined the costs associated with the various aspects.

He said so far, partnership agreements have been signed with 3 entities in western Jamaica, while discussions are being held with other facilities in Kingston.

Dr Tufton said under the programme, operations to be conducted include those for hernias and plastic surgery.