As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica, the Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA) has issued an urgent appeal to families to promptly collect relatives who have been discharged from hospitals and health facilities across the western region. This measure aims to ensure the safety and comfort of stable patients who can be cared for at home, while allowing hospitals to concentrate their resources on emergency and critical care cases during the storm. St Andrade Sinclair, the Regional Director, emphasized the critical need for swift community cooperation, stating that timely action would enhance hospital readiness. Sinclair urged family members to act responsibly by collecting loved ones who are medically fit for discharge, ensuring hospitals remain well-equipped to handle storm-related emergencies and provide optimal care to those in critical need. Families are advised to contact hospital wards or facility administrators for discharge guidance and collection times. The WRHA also reminded the public to stay informed through weather updates and advisories from the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the Meteorological Service of Jamaica. The authority is collaborating closely with the Ministry of Health and Wellness and local disaster response agencies to safeguard the well-being of patients and staff throughout the hurricane.
#EyeOnMelissa: WRHA urges families to collect discharged relatives as Melissa nears
