KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Public hospitals islandwide have entered emergency mode, with inpatient services and elective surgeries suspended. This was announced by Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton, who on Thursday afternoon advised relatives of patients admitted for non-critical reasons to pick them up as soon as possible.
Speaking at a press briefing to update the country on plans being rolled out by the Government in response to the impending threat from Tropical Storm Melissa, Tufton said hospitals must reserve bed spaces in case they are needed for emergencies.
Tufton said the emergency center is now fully activated, and consultations have been held with the regional health authorities.
At the same time, 702 health personnel are on standby across parishes for emergency responses.
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