Richard Bryan, Gleaner Writer
MANDEVILLE, Manchester:
MANCHESTER RESIDENTS, and particularly those in the Mandeville enclave, were the recipients of free health checks, advice, and a range of discounts as Consolidated Health Services, a main staple for general health care there, closed out their monthlong promotional programme recently.
It was an open house inside for those wanting to see doctors and purchase pharmaceuticals, while in the car park outside, there were booths where students from Northern Caribbean University’s medical technology and nursing departments carried out routine checks and tests all day.
The day’s activities coincided with the end of Pharmacy Week. The main offering was the random giveaway of a special electronic discount card it has developed, which can be utilised at any of its desks.
Giving back
“It’s our way of giving back, in a tangible way, the great patronage we have been so grateful to enjoy all these years,” a delighted Jade Allen-Williams told The Gleaner.Consolidated Health Services is owned by retired custos and one of the longest-serving medical doctors in the island, Gilbert Allen. Allen-Williams, his daughter, now takes over the operational reins.
Consolidated Services, which is a one-stop for lab, medical and pharmaceutical engagements, is established as it is in operation for more than 20 years, but the changing landscape suggests it cannot be business as usual. Over the last three years, the parish’s main cash cows in bauxite have either collapsed or significantly dwindled. This has placed a lot of pressure on home-grown businesses.
Allen-Williams said companies like Consolidated are forced to be innovative.
“There is always the need for renewal, finding new clientele and finding ways to motivate those who have trusted us over the years.”
rural@gleanerjm.com
