Inc — a South Florida-based non-profit organisation that carried out a three-day health mission across St Catherine and St Mary. From August 20 to 22, more than 80 volunteer doctors, dentists, ophthalmologists, nurses, and support staff flew in from the United States and Canada to offer their services to students preparing for the new school year.

The initiative, which has become a staple on the back-to-school calendar, was met with gratitude, challenges, and a few surprises. The mission kicked off at Dinthill Technical High School in Linstead, where more than 600 students turned out to receive free health screenings. Medical, dental, and vision services were provided, and student athletes as well as those students who were suspected of having issues with their heart were given electrocardiogram (EKG) tests.

Public health nurses from the St Catherine Health Department were also on hand to check immunisation records and administer required vaccines prior to the start of the new school year. In addition to the free medical exams, students and their parents were treated to refreshments while they waited. One parent, who preferred not to give his name, expressed gratitude for the services being provided.

“My son got his eyes checked and they [Friends of Dinthill, Inc] will be helping to pay for the glasses. That is a big help for me and my son as I know that when school starts he will be able to see much better,” said the parent. On the second and third days of the health mission, the team travelled to St Mary High School in Highgate where they had prepared to serve up to 5,000 students. The turnout, however, was far below expectations. “We are extremely disappointed by the turnout,” said Margaret Watt-Walker, president and mission coordinator.

“We came prepared to serve many more families, but upon arrival, we were advised that due to the upcoming general elections the politicians in the area provided free back-to-school health fairs in an attempt to secure votes,” added Watt-Walker. (Jamaica Observer)