Patsy Edwards-Henry An Enduring Leader of Jamaica’s Nursing Association

The Nurses Association of Jamaica (NAJ) stands as a beacon of excellence and advocacy in the Jamaican healthcare landscape. Established to represent and support nursing professionals across the island, the NAJ is dedicated to ensuring quality nursing care for all Jamaicans and influencing sound health policies nationwide.

Goals and Responsibilities of the NAJ

At its core, the NAJ operates with a mission to lead nursing both nationally and internationally. The association strives to:

• Ensure Quality Nursing Care: By setting high standards for nursing practice, the NAJ guarantees that patients receive the best possible care.
• Advocate for Sound Health Policies: The association plays a pivotal role in shaping health policies that benefit the Jamaican populace, ensuring that these policies are both effective and equitable.
• Support Professional Development: Recognizing the importance of continuous learning, the NAJ provides opportunities for nurses to enhance their skills and knowledge, thereby advancing the profession.
• Represent Nurses’ Interests: Serving as the collective voice of Jamaican nurses, the NAJ addresses concerns related to working conditions, compensation, and other professional matters.

Patsy Edwards-Henry: A Legacy of Leadership

Patsy Edwards-Henry’s tenure as President of the NAJ is marked by resilience, advocacy, and transformative leadership. First elected in October 2020, she assumed the role during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that tested the mettle of healthcare systems worldwide.

Before her presidency, Edwards-Henry was deeply involved in frontline healthcare as a Registered Nurse, Registered Midwife, and Departmental Nurse Manager at the Victoria Jubilee Hospital. Her firsthand experience during the pandemic, including her association with Jamaica’s first COVID-19 patient, provided her with unique insights into the challenges faced by healthcare professionals.

Throughout her leadership, Edwards-Henry was a staunch advocate for the nursing community. She highlightedthe critical issue of nurse migration, often referred to as the “brain drain,” emphasizing its detrimental impact on Jamaica’s healthcare system. In May 2022, she poignantly described this trend as a “bleeding wound,” underscoring the urgency of implementing strategies to retain nursing talent within the country.

Her dedication to the profession and her impactful leadership did not go unnoticed. In September 2022, Edwards-Henry was re-elected for a third consecutive term as NAJ President, reflecting the trust and confidence the nursing community placed in her.

Beyond her advocacy on migration issues, Edwards-Henry called for special recognition of nurses’ contributions during the pandemic. She proposed the establishment of a special award to honor nurses who demonstrated exceptional dedication and bravery in the face of unprecedented challenges.

In September 2023, Edwards-Henry passed the leadership baton to her successor, leaving behind a legacy of commitment, advocacy, and transformative change within the NAJ.

Conclusion

The Nurses Association of Jamaica continues to be a pillar of support and advocacy for nursing professionals across the island. Under the leadership of individuals like Patsy Edwards-Henry, the association has navigated challenges, championed the rights and welfare of nurses, and played a crucial role in shaping Jamaica’s healthcare landscape. As the NAJ moves forward, it remains committed to its mission of ensuring quality nursing care and influencing health policies for the betterment of all Jamaicans.