Centres, Institutes, Units and Department Reports
The Hugh Wynter Institute for Reproductive healthcare and Endoscopic Surgery
The Hugh Wynter Institute for Reproductive Healthcare and Endoscopic Surgery (HWI-RHES) has aligned its strategic goals with The University of the West Indies’ Phase 2 initiatives for 2022–2027, titled “Revenue Revolution.”This phase focuses on enhancing efficiency, maximizing capacity, and increasing the institution’s income-generating capabilities. A key strategy in achieving these objectives has been the implementation of a robust Quality Management System (QMS) at all levels of its operations, fostering a continuous improvement culture. This system aims to provide high-quality care, facilitate better access, boost service utilisation, and enhance educational and research outcomes, thereby increasing the number of trained medical personnel to address both national and regional healthcare needs.
Under the leadership of Dr. John Harriott, the HWI-RHES continues to be the premier institution in the English-speaking Caribbean for high-quality services regarding contraceptive technologies, assisted reproductive technologies, fertility-enhancing surgeries, and gynaecologic endoscopic procedures for benign conditions. The institute’s focus areas include clinical services, training, research, and outreach. Recent initiatives aimed at improving efficiency, capacity maximisation, and enhancing income generation have been successful. The income statement for the period reflects a total income of $265,801,051.49, with expenditures of $186,864,432.80, resulting in a significant profit of $78,936,618.59—a remarkable 368% increase from the previous year.
To further enhance its global reach, HWI-RHES has been building brand awareness through various outreach initiatives across social media, print, and broadcast platforms. Improving client experience at all customer interaction points and maintaining high standards in healthcare delivery have been emphasised. The observance of Endometriosis Month in March 2024 included a range of activities to raise awareness and educate the public about the condition. Efforts included a radio interview by Dr. Loxley Christie on NCU 91 FM discussing causes, symptoms, and treatments for endometriosis, and a designated Endo Day on March 15. Staff, patients, and medical representatives wore yellow to show support, participating in a social media campaign featuring videos and photographs. Dr. Christie also led an Endo Forum under the Constant Spring Kiwanis Club’s auspices, with presentations focusing on the struggles faced by women with endometriosis, myths and misconceptions, its impact on fertility, and living with the condition. The month wrapped up with discussions on “Doctor’s Orders,” hosted by Dr. Harriott and Dr. Winston Dawes, and an informative session at Grace Kennedy staff meeting.
Following Endometriosis Awareness Month, the HWI-RHES organized events for Infertility Awareness Month in June 2024. Dr. Giselle Harrison Rowe presented various aspects of infertility at the Sandy Park Seventh- Day Adventist Church. At the same time, Dr. Christie contributed to a special church service at Swallowfield Chapel and appeared on CVM at Sunrise for an in-depth interview the following day.
The institute also responded proactively to Jamaica’s declining birth rates, underlining its commitment to addressing reproductive health challenges in the region. This multifaceted approach underscores HWI-RHES’s dedication to enhancing reproductive healthcare through education, awareness, and high-quality clinical services. It ultimately aims to meet the evolving needs of the community and contribute to improved health outcomes in Jamaica and the Caribbean.