THE EDITOR, Madam:The recent mass protest by nurses at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) sparked widespread empathy. They cited staff shortages, long hours, inadequate supplies, and overcrowding – concerns that have persisted for years without meaningful action. We have heard of patients spending days in Accident and Emergency because of a shortage of beds. In a podcast interview, Dr Michael Abrahams stated that none of Jamaica’s public hospitals has a functional MRI machine, and that the Bustamante Hospital for Children lacks a CT scanner. He also noted that the maternal mortality rate last year was higher than it was in the 1980s. Yet we wonder why those who can afford it, including relatives of politicians, often seek medical care abroad.In a widely shared video, Dawn-Marie Richards, president of the Nurses Association of Jamaica, passionately challenged the prime minister about the sector’s shortcomings and the exodus of nurses. Is anyone listening? Inadequate healthcare is a major reason many Jamaicans in the diaspora hesitate to return home. Their pensions, savings, investments, and expertise could significantly benefit the country. Healthcare professionals abroad could also help fill staffing gaps through volunteering or consultancies.Improvement requires addressing the root causes of the crisis. It is unacceptable for patients to spend 24 hours waiting in emergency departments, and no one should die while awaiting care. Such conditions are particularly harsh for senior citizens. With nearly one-third of Jamaica’s population living in Kingston and St Andrew, hospitals should be equipped to meet demand. Reports of relatives transporting blood samples from hospitals to external laboratories raise concerns about safety and quality standards.The UHWI should be among the best hospitals in the Caribbean. Hospitals should strengthen fundraising efforts and partnerships with private donors. Insurance companies should also make coverage more affordable and accessible. Greater access to preventive care and routine screening would reduce hospital admissions, ease pressure on the system, and improve health outcomes. Jamaica needs decisive action and strategic leadership to transform healthcare.P. CHIN