The University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) has implemented a temporary suspension on accepting patient transfers.

It has asked private and public hospitals, as well as nursing homes to keep stable patients.

Speaking with IRIE FM News, the UHWI’s Medical Chief of Staff, Dr. Carl Bruce explains that the temporary suspension was implemented as the hospital’s emergency room has reached capacity.

Dr. Bruce adds that 90 per cent of patients in the emergency room present complications from chronic non-communicable diseases.

He says it is important that the UHWI clears the backlog of patients before it resumes patient transfers.

In the meantime, referring physicians are encouraged to contact the hospital directly to inquire about the status of availability.