Road traffic crashes are a significant concern in Jamaica, ranking as the 11th leading cause of premature death. The crisis is driven by social determinants such as excessive speeding and drink-driving, resulting in a high number of injuries and fatalities that pose a major public health problem.
To address this pressing issue, PAHO, in partnership with the National Road Safety Council, is spearheading the implementation of the UNRSF Safe System Approach for Safer Roads in Jamaica project. This initiative focuses on road safety management, behavior improvement, and post-crash care outcomes.
The project's goals include the development of a national road safety plan endorsed by all sectors, enhanced coordination mechanisms, provision of equipment, and training for law enforcement. Additionally, efforts will focus on strengthening emergency care systems in alignment with the tenets of The Safe System Approach, an evidence-based strategy championed by the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, which prioritizes people and safety.
PAHO facilitates Emergency and Critical Care System assessment
In support of the “Safe Systems Approach for Safer Roads in Jamaica” the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and World Health Organization (WHO) facilitated an Emergency and Critical Care System Assessment, utilizing a WHO tool, in November 2023. The initiative is a great starting point to identify gaps and needs to support countries in developing a roadmap with content-specific targeted solutions that will allow them to identify the necessary changes to strengthen emergency care in a comprehensive manner. The assessment involved a survey, a two-day consensus meeting, and consultations with key stakeholders. During the workshop, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health and Wellness emphasized the importance of behavioral change, public education, adherence to procedures, and compliance with road traffic laws to alleviate the strain on healthcare workers and the system caused by road-related fatalities.