KINGSTON, Jamaica — More than 40 Cuban healthcare workers, formerly part of the bilateral arrangement between Jamaica and Cuba, have chosen to remain on the island and are now serving under individual contracts, according to Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Christopher Tufton.

Speaking with journalists at the ministry in New Kingston recently, Dr Tufton indicated that, prior to the recall of Cuban healthcare workers, approximately 278 doctors were engaged in the programme.

“Of that number… About over 40 decided not to return [to Cuba] and were given individual contracts… and are working in the [local health] system now,” he said.