THE EDITOR, Sir:
THERE ARE many Jamaicans who delight in saying negative things about the health care in 'Third World Jamaica', insisting that the care in the 'developed countries' is always better. My experience was quite the opposite.
On August 15 last I accidentally stepped on a piece of glass in Toronto, while walking home from Ryerson University. The next day I had what was thought to be all of it removed. In the ensuing weeks, I continued to feel severe pain both at rest and on attempts to walk. After several doctor's visits I was repeatedly told that nothing was wrong as the skin by now had healed.
On Thursday, August 21, I finally convinced a doctor to send me for an 'emergency' ultrasound. To be fair the study was done the same day, but the 'emergency' ultrasound was not read until Monday, August 25 by the radiologist, which did in fact show a foreign body in the soft tissue of my left heel.
On inquiring when I could have the glass removed as it was causing pain, I was told by the doctor that she had no idea when I could get an appointment to see the surgeon, as it was not a 'priority'. She indicated that she would telephone me with the date for the appointment for consultation with the surgeon. To date she has not called, as I check my voice mail daily.
I telephoned my mother in Jamaica on Tuesday, August 26. She arranged for me to travel to Jamaica the afternoon of September first. My surgery was done Tuesday morning September 2.
Even at Pearson International Airport while sitting in a wheel chair waiting for Air Canada's departure, a fellow Jamaican employed by Air Canada asked me why I as a Canadian citizen would travel to Jamaica for surgery. Health care is free in Canada for Canadian citizens and landed immigrants. However it is 'when' you receive it.
So when you check it out, Lawd, no where no better than yard! I would like to take this opportunity to again thank Drs. Grantel Dundas, Neville Ballin and Freddie Clarke.
I am, etc.,
MOINA DENYS SPENCER
Toronto, Canada
