Junior Minister of Health Celebrates Orderlies on Orderlies Appreciation Day 2025
The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs joined with staff at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Center to honour the men and women who serve as orderlies within the nation’s healthcare system. Senator the Honourable Michael Joseph, Junior Minister of Health, delivered the keynote address during a special ceremony to celebrate Orderlies Appreciation Day 2025.
The event brought together healthcare workers and administrators to acknowledge the dedication and sacrifice of orderlies, whose roles are often unseen but indispensable to the daily functioning of hospitals and clinics.
In his address, Senator Joseph described orderlies as the “backbone of the health system,” praising them for their steadfast service in ensuring that patients receive care with dignity and compassion.
“You may not always wear a white coat or stand in front of a parliament, but the work you do matters. It matters to our patients, it matters to their families, and it matters to the Ministry of Health. Without you, the smooth functioning of our hospitals and clinics would be impossible,” he said.
The Junior Minister reflected on his own professional journey, beginning as a volunteer with the Red Cross, later serving as a pharmacist, and ultimately becoming a Senator and Junior Minister of Health. He encouraged orderlies to view their current roles as stepping stones, urging them to embrace opportunities for growth and advancement within the health sector.
“Where you start does not have to determine where you finish. Each position, each role, is a stepping stone. What matters most is how you use the opportunity you’ve been given,” he emphasized.
Senator Joseph went on to highlight the special responsibility orderlies carry as the first and sometimes last point of contact for patients. He underscored the impact of simple acts of kindness, reminding attendees that healthcare is not only about medicine and treatment, but also about human connection.
“A doctor can prescribe medicine, a nurse can administer treatment, but the healing process often begins with something far simpler: kindness. A smile. A word of encouragement. A respectful attitude. Never underestimate the power of compassion in healthcare,” he added.
The ceremony also celebrated orderlies for their role in maintaining the efficiency and humanity of healthcare delivery. Senator Joseph stressed that beyond their practical responsibilities—transporting patients, assisting medical staff, and supporting hospital operations—orderlies are integral to creating a culture of care.
He concluded his remarks with a strong message of respect and encouragement:
“Today, we honour you not only for what you do, but for who you are: essential members of our healthcare family. You are valued. You are respected. And you are capable of achieving greatness. The work you do today is laying the foundation for the leader you can become tomorrow.”
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the training and development of orderlies, ensuring that they continue to receive opportunities for growth in alignment with the government’s broader vision for a modern, people-centered healthcare system.
Orderlies Appreciation Day 2025 at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre was marked by expressions of gratitude from hospital leadership, healthcare professionals, and patients, who commended orderlies for their daily contributions and unwavering dedication to service.
