October 1, 2026
Health Ministry assures emergency and essential health services remain available, amid threat of disruption by doctors
Written byShanice Gibbs
The Health and Wellness Ministry has sought to assure the public that emergency and essential health services remain available at public health facilities islandwide.
This, while industrial relations matters involving medical doctors continue to be addressed.
In a statement, the Ministry says some facilities may need to make temporary adjustments to ensure routine services are available over the coming days.
It says members of the public may notice longer waiting times at some locations, rescheduling of some non-urgent appointments, clinics and elective procedures; and adjusted opening hours at selected facilities.
The Ministry says its regional health authorities have put measures in place to safeguard patient care.
These include: senior medical staff being available at facilities to support coverage; giving priority to emergency and urgent care; and managing admissions and outpatient schedules, so resources are directed where they are most needed.
The Ministry says it is closely monitoring service delivery and will make changes as needed.
Persons with medical emergencies are being urged to go to the nearest accident and emergency department without delay.
At the same time persons on medication for chronic diseases should not allow their supply to run out and should collect refills early where possible.
The Ministry says it is also awaiting the decision of the Tribunal, and urges the continued patience of all parties given the complexity of the matters under consideration by the Tribunal.
