As Jamaica joins countries around the world in observing World Heart Day on September 29 under the theme “Don’t Miss a Beat,” the Culture, Health, Arts, Sports and Education (CHASE) Fund is highlighting its continued investment in cardiovascular care and its commitment to strengthening health services for Jamaicans.
Cardiovascular disease remains a major health concern in Jamaica. Early detection, accessible screening and timely treatment are critical to reducing the impact of heart disease, and CHASE has supported initiatives aimed at strengthening these areas through its Health portfolio.
Strengthening Cardiac Screening and Emergency Care
Recently, CHASE provided $11 million in diagnostic equipment to the Heart Foundation of Jamaica (HFJ) to strengthen its capacity to screen, diagnose and respond to cardiovascular conditions.
The donation included two Holter monitors, five haemoglobin machines, three automated external defibrillators (AEDs), one paediatric mega code training system and three electrocardiogram (ECG) machines.
The equipment will support cardiac screening and monitoring, emergency response and the training of healthcare personnel, helping to expand the Foundation’s capacity to provide essential cardiovascular services.
Investing in Cardiac Surgery
CHASE has also made significant investments in Jamaica’s capacity to provide complex cardiac care.
In 2017, CHASE approved $21.8 million for a cardiopulmonary bypass machine for the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI). The machine supports open-heart surgery by temporarily taking over the functions of the heart and lungs during surgical procedures.
Building Specialist Capacity
Recognising that specialised equipment must be supported by appropriately trained professionals, CHASE was tasked in 2020 with facilitating scholarships for the training of two perfusionists. The initiative followed recognition of a shortage of specialists trained to operate cardiopulmonary bypass machines during cardiac surgery. At the time, Jamaica reportedly had only two perfusionists.
Perfusion Science remains one of the specialised medical fields supported through CHASE’s Health portfolio, reflecting the important role perfusionists play in cardiac surgery and the operation of cardiopulmonary bypass equipment.
“This World Heart Day, CHASE reaffirms its commitment to strengthening healthcare and ensuring that Jamaicans have access to the screening, diagnosis and treatment needed to protect their heart health. When we invest in early detection, quality healthcare and specialised training, we invest in longer, healthier lives.”– W. Billy Heaven, CEO, CHASE Fund
A Broader Commitment to Health
CHASE’s investment in cardiovascular care forms part of its broader mandate to strengthen Jamaica’s health sector. The Fund supports the construction, upgrading, restoration and equipping of health facilities, as well as programmes that promote healthy lifestyles and disease prevention.
CHASE also supports the training and professional development of healthcare personnel through scholarships and grants, helping to build the specialised human-resource capacity required to deliver quality healthcare.
Don’t Miss a Beat: Protect Your Heart
As Jamaica observes World Heart Day, CHASE encourages Jamaicans to take practical steps to protect their heart health:
- Get regular checks for blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.
- Eat less salt, sugar and processed food, and include more fruits, vegetables and whole foods in your diet.
- Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days.
- Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol consumption.
- Learn CPR and become familiar with the location of the nearest automated external defibrillator (AED).
- Seek medical attention promptly if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, an irregular heartbeat or other concerning symptoms.
This World Heart Day, don’t miss a beat. Take action to protect your heart and encourage those around you to do the same.
