Sat | Jan 11, 2025

SERHA enhances security at Bustamante, other health facilities amid abuse and threats against workers

Published:Friday | January 10, 2025 | 7:22 PM
File photo.

The South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) is reporting that it has enhanced security measures across healthcare facilities, including at the Bustamante Hospital for Children, arising from incidents of abuse and threats directed at healthcare workers.

Acting Regional Director at SERHA, Lascelles Brown, says the authority has reported all incidents of threats against workers to law enforcement authorities for appropriate actions to be taken.

Brown says SERHA strongly condemns the recent incidents of abuse and threats against healthcare workers.

“We are aware of abusive language and threats directed at healthcare workers assigned to Bustamante. At SERHA, we have a strict zero-tolerance policy for any form of aggression or violence against staff members,” said Brown.

“We ask all patients, visitors, and members of the public to engage with our healthcare professionals with the utmost respect and courtesy. Our doctors, nurses, and support staff are dedicated to providing the best care possible, often in challenging and high-pressure situations, and they should not be subjected to verbal abuse, threats, or intimidation,” he added.

SERHA is reminding members of the public that they should treat healthcare workers with respect and dignity and follow proper channels for raising concerns or complaints.

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.