The Health Ministry has promised to implement initiatives this year, that will facilitate free diagnostics at both public and private facilities.

Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton, in his sectoral debate contribution today (May 7), lamented the suffering endured by persons who have to wait for surgeries and diagnostic tests.

He said in addition to addressing the bed space shortage issue, a $ 1 b allocation from the government will be used to significantly cut the wait time for surgeries and diagnostic tests.

Dr. Tufton said for certain surgeries, private providers will be contracted.

The minister said where hospitals lack machines to do certain diagnostics, these service will be contracted to private providers.

He said Professor Archibald McDonald will be appointed to oversee the $ 1b intervention programme.

He expressed hope that measures can be put in place within the next 3 months in preparation for implementation by September.