Bermuda Hospitals Board said they are “suspending services” at the Lamb Foggo Urgent Care Centre from today [April 4] “in order to focus much needed resources on the KEMH Emergency Department.”
Dr Chikezie Dean Okereke, Chief of Emergency, comments: “We have seen in other countries the strain that Emergency Departments have experienced due to an influx of COVID-19 patients, and the strain is compounded because staff themselves can also become sick or need to be quarantined, reducing overall resources.
“We have looked at how best to keep our emergency services open and running for Bermuda at this time of great challenge and anxiety for the community. We believe that we now need all of our available staff in the Emergency Department. We apologise for any inconvenience and remind people that they can travel during the 14 days of sheltering at home for emergency care.
“If people start experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or are worried they have been exposed, they do not need to panic. For many people this is a mild enough disease they can manage at home, with plenty of fluids and Tylenol, if needed.
“Please be aware of the risks of age and existing medical issues, or if symptoms get worse, call your doctor, the COVID-19 Hotline at 444-249, or the Emergency Department Telephone Triage at 239-2009. There is a COVID-19 symptom checklist assessment that can be found on both the BHB and Government websites to help you determine your course of action, but don’t just turn up if you think you need care. Always call first.”
