By Belize Live News Staff: The Ministry of Health & Wellness has addressed concerns raised by a parent regarding an incident at the Northern Regional Hospital on October 29, 2024. According to the Ministry, the parent had sought medical care for their child, who had sustained a forehead injury on October 28, 2024.
The parent reported a significant delay, stating that their child was left unattended for over an hour in the hospital’s Emergency Department. However, the Ministry clarified that surveillance footage shows the child and an adult female arriving in the Emergency Department Triage Room at 2:56 PM. The child, aged 7, was promptly assessed by the triage team and categorized as a “priority” case due to a bandaged forehead wound. Medical staff noted no active bleeding or signs of altered consciousness in the child.
Approximately 22 minutes after the family’s arrival, the Regional Health Manager was informed of the parent’s concern regarding the wait time. A senior hospital official immediately investigated the situation, and by 3:36 PM, it was noted that the child had already left the facility.
The Ministry of Health & Wellness assured the public that the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department adheres to a structured triage protocol to ensure timely and appropriate care. The Ministry reiterated its commitment to improving communication between hospital staff and patients to further enhance service delivery.
For more information on this incident, the Ministry advises the public to contact Felix Rhaburn, Regional Health Manager at Northern Regional Hospital in Orange Walk Town.
