EMERGENCY ROOM VISITOR POLICY UPDATED TO ENHANCE PATIENT SAFETY & CARE
Friday 29th August 2025
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, August 29, 2025 — The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) will implement updated visitor policies for its Emergency Department, effective Monday, September 1, 2025. The changes are designed to support a safe, respectful, and healing environment for patients, families, and healthcare staff.
The updated policy outlines new visiting hours, age restrictions, health screening expectations, and onsite protocols—including mandatory visitor badges.
“We know that family presence plays an important role in healing, but we must also prioritize safety and clinical care—especially in our high-demand Emergency Department,” said Dr. Olsheath Bowen, Chair of the SLBMC Emergency Department. “These updates allow us to manage our environment better while still making space for compassionate, patient-centered care.”
Dr. Bowen added, “Staff have worked diligently to make the process as efficient as possible, and we’ve mirrored procedures already in place for other hospital visitors. Requiring check-in and issuing visitor passes adds an important layer of security for both patients and staff.”
She further emphasized, “It’s important to note that this visitor policy does not affect our usual practice of ensuring that patients who need support—such as minors, elderly persons, individuals with intellectual disabilities, or those experiencing a mental health crisis—are accompanied by an adult when accessing care.”
Key updates to the Emergency Department Visitor Policy include:
Visiting Hours: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Visitor Limit: Maximum of two visitors per patient during visiting hours
Age Restriction: Children must be 12 years or older to visit
Patient Property: 24/7 drop-off and pick-up remains available at the front desk
Check-In Requirement: All visitors must register at the Emergency Department front desk
Mask Policy: Masking remains responsive to current hospital and community conditions
Health Screening: Visitors with symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, sore throat) are asked not to visit
“This updated policy reinforces our commitment to both patient care and staff well-being,” said Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis, SLBMC Medical Director. “It reflects current best practices in hospital operations and infection control, while recognizing the vital role families play in patient support.”
The new guidelines are part of SLBMC’s ongoing efforts to improve patient experience and strengthen hospital operations. Full details of the policy will be posted at the Emergency Department entrance and on the SLBMC social media pages.
