Strengthening Jamaica’s Healthcare, One Doctor at a Time
Founded in 1975, the Jamaica Medical Doctors’ Association (JMDA) unites and represents doctors across the public health system, advocating for better working conditions, professional growth, and compassionate care for every Jamaican.
Who We Are
The Jamaica Medical Doctors’ Association (JMDA) is a registered trade union and professional body representing government-employed medical doctors at all levels excluding consultants.
Since its operations in 1976, the Association has worked to protect the welfare of doctors while improving the quality of healthcare for the people of Jamaica. Through advocacy, education, and community service, the JMDA promotes fair working conditions, continuous professional development, and stronger healthcare delivery across the island. Our members are united by their dedication to service, professionalism, and national well-being.
History of the JMDA
The Jamaica Medical Doctors’ Association (JMDA) was established in 1975 under its original name, the Junior Doctors’ Association (JDA), and formally commenced operations in 1976 . At its inception, the organisation functioned as three coexistent groups: Cornwall Regional Hospital (CRH), Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) and the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI). Each group was led by its own president. In 1980, these three bodies were unified to form a single association.
The Junior Doctors' Association of Jamaica was officially renamed to the Jamaica Medical Doctors’ Association in 2002 as part of a restructuring and rebranding process to better reflect the scope and identity of the organisation.
Roles of the JMDA
The JMDA advances healthcare in Jamaica through advocacy, education, and service with the end goal of empowering doctors and improving patient outcomes nationwide.
Advocacy & Representation
Defend and promote the interests of all medical doctors across the public health system and the University Hospital.
Healthcare Improvement
Facilitate the improvement of healthcare delivered to the people of Jamaica by promoting continuous medical education, professional development and improved working conditions for doctors.
Negotiation & Mediation
Mediate and advocate on behalf of its members, serving as the primary negotiator on matters affecting their welfare and professional environment.
Message from our President
“Together, we will continue to strengthen the voice of Jamaica's medical professionals and create a healthcare system worthy of our country.”
This year marks a historic milestone for the Jamaica Medical Doctors' Association, as we commemorate 50 years of advocacy, service, and trade union excellence. Over the past five decades, the JMDA has advocated for fair labour practices, secured critical improvements in working conditions, defended doctors' rights, and led national discussions on healthcare reform.
Read more...
-- Dr. Renee Badroe
Trustees
Our Trustees provide oversight, integrity, and guidance for the Association. They ensure transparency and strong governance across the organisation.
Dr. Leroy Pottinger
Dr. Myrton Smith
Dr. Glendon Strachan
Leadership Team: 2025 - 2026
The JMDA is led by a team of dedicated professionals working to advance healthcare access, strengthen the medical workforce, and advocate for doctors and patients across Jamaica.
Dr. Renee Badroe
President
Dr. Jubilee Brown-Service
1st Vice President
Dr. Fabian Blake
Secretary
Presidents' Timeline
Celebrating the visionary leaders who have shaped our association’s legacy and advanced healthcare in Jamaica.
(Photo representations may not correspond to the president's appearance during their tenure.)
Prof. J. Peter Figueroa (KPH)
1975–1980
Warren Blake
1980–1982
Prof. Ransford Wilks
1982–1984
Dr. Lloyd Goldson
1984–1985
Dr. Leroy Pottinger
1985–1988
Dr. Janet Burke
1988–1991
Dr. Eraldo Thomas
1991–1992
Dr. Brian James
1992–1994
Dr. Ann Jackson-Gibson
1994–1996
Dr. Charles Rockhead
1996–1997
Dr. Simone Dundas
1997–1998
Dr. Andrew Manning
1998–1999
Dr. Loxley Christie
1999–2000
Myrton Smith
2000–2001
Dr. Paula Dawson
2001–2002
Dr. Colin Graham
2002–2003
Dr. Jason Toppin
2003–2004
Dr. Steven Bourne
2004–2005
Dr. Myrton Smith
2005–2007
Dr. Andrew Salmon
2007–2009
Dr. Shane Alexis
2009–2011
Dr. Dayton Campbell
2011
Dr. Timothy Mitchell
2011–2012
Dr. Dane Miller
2012–2014
Dr. Alfred Dawes
2014–2015
Dr. Autrene Buchanan-Waite
2015–2016
Dr. Elon Thompson
2016–2020
Dr. Mindi Fitz-Henley
2020–2024
Dr. Renee Badroe
2024–2026
Secretariat
The Secretariat manages the daily operations of the JMDA, ensuring effective communication, coordination, and administrative support for the association’s activities.
Mrs. Janet Harrison
Office Manager & Data Protection Coordinator