QEH stocked, ready to deal with holiday period

THE QUEEN ELIZABETH Hospital (QEH) is stocked and ready to face the pressure of a busy Christmas season.

However, Chief Executive Officer, Dr Dexter James is pleading with Barbadians not to overdo it as they enjoy the festivities of the season.

Dr James told The Barbados Advocate that the island’s tertiary health care facility has “increased its non-perishables by 25 per cent” to take on additional cases.

“A similar approach would be taken for drugs and medical supplies to ensure sustainability of services. As you are aware, many suppliers in Barbados close their doors around mid-December.

“So we have to respond to this annual normal to ensure continuity of services. We have to ensure we have stock to cover us now and almost into mid-January,” he said.

And while the QEH has put all measures in place to ensure that it is fully prepared for the season, the Chief Executive Officer reminded Barbadians that they must exercise due care and attention on the roads to mitigate accidents which are likely to place immense burden on the hospital’s emergency and critical care structure.

“We want members of the public to enjoy the festivities of the season, but do so with moderation and be responsible. Persons who are diabetic or have hypertension, govern yourself accordingly; make sure you maintain a healthy diet and take your medication as required and check your sugar. Please ensure you do your self-checks. We want you to make sure that you keep yourself in good health during and after the season,” Dr James urged.

On behalf of QEH’s management, Dr James thanked all stakeholders for their support and feedback during 2017.

“We wish every citizen a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year,” he said.
(AH)