The Editor, Sir:

I wish, on behalf of the regional director, Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA), to express appreciation to all categories of staff in the four hospitals and the public health services for their commitment to delivering quality health care.

Members of staff have continued to show dedication to duty even in the face of increasing workload and heightened pressure since April 1 when the abolition of user fees paved the way for more patients using the public health services.

In fact, at some of our health facilities, the number of persons accessing the services has risen as high as 60 per cent.

While I have no doubt that this situation repeats itself across regions, my comments are specific to the Western Regional Health Authority, comprising the parishes of Westmoreland, Hanover, St James and Trelawny.

Staff shortage

It is a known fact that even prior to April 1, there was ongoing shortage of staff in such critical areas as pharmacy, nursing and internal medicine.

Regrettably, with the added patient load and increased waiting time we have observed incidents of abusive behaviour by patients. We pledge our commitment to service but we depend on the cooperation of our clients.

While members of staff are going the extra mile to meet patients' needs, it is expected that patients will exercise a greater level of understanding and patience.

This will enhance the working atmosphere in which staff operate and result in the delivery of a better quality of service to all.

I am, etc.,

CLINTON PICKERING

clinton.pickering@wrha.gov.jm

PR/ATI Officer, WRHA