Last Updated on October 14, 2021, 7:21 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Basseterre: Health Minister Akilah Byron-Nisbett said the donation of two field hospitals by United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) is very timely and important for maintaining quality health care in St. Kitts and Nevis.
“The reception of these field hospitals is very timely and important for the Ministry of health and the people of Saint Kitts and Nevis who access health care, as such an additional resource for our health sector ensures that there is adequate space capacity in response to the emerging needs of our citizens and residents nationwide,” said Minister Byron-Nisbett at the Oct. 13 handover ceremony of two hospitals field, vehicles and other equipment at the Visitor Center at Warner Park Cricket Stadium. “Having recognized the versatile and comfortable infrastructure of field hospitals, we can now be assured of an effective space and capacity to manage victims of disasters and other emergencies.
Minister Byron-Nisbett said the field hospitals would increase capacity and prevent any strain on the health system.
“At a time when we all face the challenges of COVID-19 globally and nationally, an additional 40-bed hospital will most certainly increase our capacity and should provide an opportunity to alleviate some of the public health burdens existing facilities,” she said. “Therefore, the field hospitals will serve as an annex structure that meets hospital standards. In fact, the identified placement of the field hospital in the respiratory department where COVID-19 patients are currently housed is strategic as its placement allows easy access to any specialized equipment required, as well as to personnel providing care.”
The Minister of Health took the opportunity to congratulate healthcare professionals and support staff who completed a two-day training course aimed at equipping them with additional first responder skills.
“Without a doubt, the Department of Health is grateful for the strong support and collaborative interests of the technical team who participated in the critical training to familiarize themselves and gain knowledge about the new structure and its assembly processes. and disassembly,” she said. “We are very grateful for your commitment to this new learning experience and the skills experience that will strengthen our healthcare system.”
Minister Byron-Nisbett expressed his sincere thanks and deep gratitude to the United States government, especially SOUTHCOM and other stakeholders for this generous donation.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
