The Millennium Heights Medical Complex (MHMC) has reported ongoing overcrowding at the Accident and Emergency Department of the Owen King EU Hospital, caused by a significant increase in patients seeking care in recent weeks.
According to a press release by the MHMC today, the surge has been worsened by seasonal respiratory illnesses – especially including influenza – leading to congestion in the A&E Department and inpatient wards operating at full capacity. As a result, some patients have experienced longer waiting times while care arrangements are made.
The MHMC acknowledged the strain on patients and their families and commended clinical and support staff for continuing to provide care under challenging conditions.
The organisation said it remains committed to delivering safe and compassionate care, with priority given to urgent and emergency cases, while measures are being implemented to better manage patient flow and available resources.
The MHMC also pointed to longer-term solutions being pursued by the Government of Saint Lucia, including plans for a fifth wing expansion at the Owen King EU Hospital. The project is expected to increase bed capacity and ease pressure on the A&E Department as healthcare demand grows.
In the meantime, the MHMC is advising members of the public with non-urgent medical concerns to seek treatment at Community Wellness Centres, polyclinics, or private healthcare providers where possible. However, officials stressed that anyone requiring urgent or emergency care should not delay seeking treatment at the A&E Department.
MHMC thanked the public for their patience and understanding as the health system manages the increased demand.
