Dr. Barbara Lyle-Harper became the first female President of the Association of Surgeons in Jamaica (ASJ) during the organization's annual conference. The conference took place at The Pegasus hotel in New Kingston.
Installation and Recognition
Dr. Lyle-Harper's installation as President marks a milestone for the ASJ, a professional body that has been in existence for 34 years. Prior to this appointment, she served as Vice-President and President-elect of the ASJ since 1990. Her term as President will be for two years.
Health Minister Easton Douglas lauded Dr. Lyle-Harper's contributions to healthcare in Jamaica. He also noted the significance of the advancement of women in medicine.
"…a further confirmation of the advancement of women in the field of health,"
Douglas stated.
He described the ASJ as
"…one of the country's most respected professional bodies."
Contributions to Healthcare
Douglas further acknowledged Dr. Lyle-Harper's value to his Ministry. He recognized her as a "most valued consultant to his Ministry in the Kingston Hospital Region." Dr. Lyle-Harper is an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Specialist. She has been involved with the University of the West Indies' (UWI) postgraduate degree programme since its inception in 1974.
Women in Medicine
Minister Douglas commended the role of women in medicine in Jamaica.
"In this situation, our female doctors in all categories must be highly commended for the changes they are bringing about by their career choices, determination in the face of difficulties, and largely exemplary dedication to service."
In 1990, 19 out of the 42 medical doctors trained locally were women. Women comprised 40 percent of the 344 doctors on staff at the Health Ministry. Women hold leadership positions in various health institutions.
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