The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs continues to uphold its commitment to delivering effective and high-quality healthcare services to the people of Saint Lucia. This dedication has been further demonstrated with the phased opening of the Dr. Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic, located at the Dr. Winston C. Parris Medical Complex, formerly known as Victoria Hospital.

The official opening of the Dr. Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic took place on Monday, December 16, 2024. The transition of medical services from the Castries Wellness Centre to the new polyclinic has been described as smooth and efficient, with health officials reporting a successful start to operations.

Dr. Delphina Vernor, Senior Medical Officer for Medical and Urgent Care at the Dr. Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic, expressed satisfaction with the facility’s operations since its launch.

“The Ministry of Health is very pleased so far with the opening of the Dr. Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic. As you know, we had been experiencing issues at the Castries Wellness Centre, which had been temporarily operating from the La Clery Wellness Centre. Recognizing the inadequacy of that setup to accommodate all patients in the Castries basin, we are very happy to officially welcome patients to this new facility,” she said.

Dr. Vernor highlighted the services currently offered during the first phase of operations.

“So far, we have been open since December 16th, operating daily from 8 a.m. to midnight. Patients from surrounding areas have started coming in, and as word spreads, we expect more individuals to access treatment here. We are currently offering general medical clinics and managing minor emergencies, such as small cuts, falls, and symptoms like coughs and colds. We hope these services will help alleviate patient flow at the OKEU Hospital and other nearby facilities,” Dr. Vernor explained.

Additionally, a registered nurse at the facility shared insights into the patient experience, emphasizing the improved layout and accessibility of services.