The Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) advises that the Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) and the Grand Bahama Health Services (GBHS) continue to experience a staff ‘sick out’ which has impacted services for a fourth day. Affected institutions have implemented measures to mitigate the effects of staff shortages where possible. The public is reminded to expect delays in accessing some services at these institutions. The Authority is recommending, where possible, the public access services at these institutions at a later date.

PMH has experienced fluctuations in the reporting in of clinical staff. PMH Laboratory Services has reported staff shortages resulting in delays in services. Radiology Department is experiencing service delays as a result of staff shortages. Emergency CT scans are being referred to Oak Tree Medical Centre. Morgue services are suspended until further notice. Efforts are being made to expedite the release of remains. Shortages reference Housekeeping Services is being addressed by the contracted private housekeeping company.

At GBHS Community Health Services, Community Clinics are closed for the weekend, and remain on call for emergencies.

The Rand Memorial Hospital’s Nursing Services have resumed. RMH Diagnostic and Laboratory services are provided on an on-call basis over the weekend and are not impacted by staff shortages. Switchboard operations continue to be impacted. Staff shortages reference Housekeeping Services is being addressed by the contracted private housekeeping company.

At the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre all Departments are operating as scheduled and the institution continues to provide services to patients uninterrupted.

The public is advised to follow all announcements and public advisories from the Ministry of Health and Public Hospitals Authority regarding Health and Hospital Services.