By Belize Live News Staff: The Ministry of Health & Wellness is investigating an incident at the Southern Regional Hospital on July 14, 2024, in which friends and/or relatives of road traffic accident victims allegedly threatened and attempted to force their way into the Accident and Emergency Unit.
According to the Ministry’s investigation, the individuals arrived at the hospital around 11:24 p.m. and demanded entry into the Emergency Department. When hospital staff refused, citing the need for privacy and a controlled environment for medical care, the individuals became verbally abusive and physically threatening, including banging on the door and threatening to break it down.
Hospital security personnel and the police were called to the scene to de-escalate the situation.
The Ministry of Health & Wellness condemns this type of behavior and emphasizes the importance of allowing medical staff to provide emergency care without interference. “In addressing medical emergencies, staff require the space to employ all medical skills to preserve life and safety; this includes privacy in the emergency areas,” the Ministry stated.
The Ministry also reminded the public that threatening or obstructing public officers in the execution of their duty is a criminal offense under the laws of Belize. The Ministry is seeking the public’s cooperation in ensuring the safety and security of healthcare workers.
