RESIDENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO ACCESS NON-URGENT MEDICAL CARE THROUGH POLYCLINICS WITH EXTENDED HOURS OR WELLNESS CENTERS, FOR MINOR CONCERNS.
The Millennium Heights Medical Complex (MHMC), recognizing the challenges posed by increased patient admissions at the Owen King EU (OKEU) Hospital, has implemented strategic measures to address overcrowding in the Accident and Emergency Department (A&E) and medical wards. These efforts aim to enhance patient care, reduce wait times, and improve overall management of hospital resources.
Dr. Bernadette Joseph-Labadie, Medicine Specialist Consultant and Head of the Accident and Emergency Department at OKEU Hospital, emphasized the ongoing challenges and the hospital’s commitment to delivering quality care.
"We have observed a significant increase in patient admissions over the past year, and unfortunately, this trend has persisted into 2024. The overcrowding in our A&E Department and wards has placed immense pressure on both our patients and staff. Despite these challenges, our team remains dedicated to providing the best possible care with the resources available," noted Dr. Joseph-Labadie.
To alleviate the impact of overcrowding, the hospital has introduced a series of measures, including enhanced monitoring of patient flow, early but safe patient discharges, and real-time communication about wait times and emergency department status.
"One of the major initiatives underway is our bed expansion project at the National Mental Wellness Center, which will soon accommodate an additional 25 patients. Additionally, the recommissioning of the Secondary Care Hospital will provide 12 more beds, and the construction of the fifth wing will further increase our capacity. These steps are critical to improving patient care and ensuring we meet the growing demand," explained Dr. Labadie.
Residents are also encouraged to access non-urgent medical care through Polyclinics with extended hours, Wellness Centers, or Private Physicians. For minor concerns such as ear pain, flu-like symptoms, minor lacerations, or routine physicals, these facilities are better equipped to provide timely care, alleviating the burden on the OKEU Hospital's emergency services.
"We understand the frustration and inconvenience this situation causes to our patients and their families. However, we urge the public to support these initiatives by seeking non-emergency care through alternative services. This collaboration between the community and our healthcare system is crucial to addressing overcrowding effectively and ensuring that emergency care is available to those who need it most," Dr. Joseph-Labadie appealed.
The Ministry of Health, and the Millennium Heights Medical Complex remain steadfast in their commitment to improving healthcare services and ensuring a sustainable approach to managing patient care during these challenging times.
Please visit the Urgent Care Units at the following healthcare facilities for minor health-related conditions:
Dr. Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic - (Former Victoria Hospital) Opening Hours - Mon-Sun and Holidays from 8a.m. to 12a.m. 📞 Contact: 468-8880
Gros Islet Polyclinic. Opening Hours - Mon-Sun and Holidays from 8a.m. to 12a.m. 📞 Contact: 468-7637 | 468-7630 | 723-0663
Dennery Hospital. Opening Hours - Mon-Sun and Holidays from 8a.m. to 12a.m. 📞 Contact: 468-7650 | 468-7651 | 468-7657
Soufriere Hospital. Opening Hours - 24hours 📞 Contact: 468-7601 | 468-7603 | 485-8681