Lenworth Jacobs Clinic: A lifeline for downtown Kingston

In the bustling heart of downtown Kingston, the Lenworth Jacobs Clinic (LJC) has quietly stood as a pillar of care and hope for nearly six decades. Since its establishment in 1962, this community clinic has opened its doors to everyone, from young professionals navigating their health journey to families seeking affordable, quality care.

For many in downtown Kingston, where access to affordable healthcare is often out of reach, LJC has been more than a clinic. It’s been a lifeline.

From its humble beginnings, LJC has been driven by a simple, yet powerful mission, to provide affordable healthcare without compromising quality or dignity. Over the years, it has grown into a trusted name, offering a range of services, including family planning, antenatal care, cervical cancer screenings, and STI testing.

One thing that sets LJC apart is its unwavering commitment to privacy and confidentiality. Whether you’re a young adult seeking advice or a working mother juggling several responsibilities, the clinic ensures that every interaction is handled with the utmost discretion.

Dr Pauline Russell-Brown, the CEO of the Jamaica Family Planning Association (JFPA), reports that “women represented more than 90 per cent of users of services provided at LJC in 2024. These women are hardworking people who come in for obstetric and gynaecological, family planning and STI services. They are also diligent in bringing their babies and children to the clinic for immunisation and health checks”.

Five per cent of the clients served last year at LJC were adolescents. The CEO is urging mothers to encourage their teenagers – girls and boys - to come to the clinic for education, counselling and preventive health services. They are guaranteed to receive confidential care in a very private setting.

Stories of impact Over the years, LJC has become a cornerstone of the downtown community, not just for the services it provides, but for the relationships it has built. From outreach programmes that bring care to rural areas, to the youth arm, Youth Advocacy Movement, which engages young people in health advocacy to serving as a placement site for nursing students completing their practicum, the clinic has always prioritised meeting people where they are.

As LJC prepares to host a community educational forum in May 30, 2025, its commitment to the community remains steadfast. The event will feature free health screenings, wellness talks, and information on the clinic’s services. It’s not just about healthcare; it’s about bringing the community together and fostering trust.

The clinic is also reaching out to local businesses and organisations to partner in creating a stronger health network for downtown Kingston. By collaborating with community leaders, LJC hopes to expand its impact and continue serving those who need it most.

A Legacy of Care For nearly 60 years, the Lenworth Jacobs Clinic has been more than a healthcare facility; it’s been a cornerstone of resilience and kindness in downtown Kingston. It has become a place of health restoration, and where everyone, no matter their background, is treated with dignity.

In a community that often struggles to access quality healthcare, LJC reminds committed to providing affordable health care and to treat all its patients with compassionate care. It’s a legacy that continues to grow, one client/patient at a time.

For more information about the Lenworth Jacobs Clinic or to learn about upcoming events, call 876-948-9168.