The Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) advises members of the public that due to the recent industrial action by the Bahamas Doctors Union, the Princess Margaret Hospital, Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre, Rand Memorial Hospital and Grand Bahama Clinics will only be treating emergency cases at this time.

Emergencies are classified as the following injuries or illnesses that threaten life or limb, such as:

• Gunshot wounds
• Chest Pains
• Head Injury
• Uncontrollable Bleeding
• Loss of Consciousness
• Major trauma or accident
• Asthma
• Severe allergic reaction
• Extensive burn injuries
• Fractures/broken bones
• Deep lacerations and cuts

Injuries or illnesses that are non-life threatening and can wait several hours for care are considered Urgent Care conditions such as:

• Earache
• Sore Throat
• Coughs
• Flus or Colds
• Sprains

Persons who are unsure if they should seek care at the Emergency Department can call the telephone number 326.7014 in New Providence or 350 6770 ext. 2158/2259 in Grand Bahama and speak to healthcare provider.

The Authority deeply regrets the impact of the withdrawal of service by members of the Bahamas Doctors Union on hospital services and patient care. The PHA will continue to keep members of the public informed as regards the full resumption of services.