Head of the Harrison Point Isolation Facility Dr. Corey Forde, staff and representatives of the donors as they tour the new space.
Asymptomatic COVID-19 patients at the Harrison Point Isolation Facility now have the opportunity to pass their time more comfortably as several donors pulled together to create a recreational space. With these types of patients not manifesting any symptoms, their time at the St. Lucy compound could seem like a prison sentence, however, Head of the facility Dr. Corey Forde on Wednesday shed some light on the details of the new space.
Noting that the patients’ mental and emotional wellness was also their responsibility, Dr. Forde revealed that those sequestered now had an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors on the compound. With a panoramic view of the calming Caribbean Sea as a backdrop, the partially-graveled and partially-paved area provided room for walking, jogging, playing football and other activities. There are also picnic benches and umbrellas to allow for simple relaxation.
With the initiative completed through contributions from Steinbok Management Services Inc., C.O. Williams Construction, Berkan Construction, Oran, Do It Best, Next Generation Electrical and Caribbean Hub, Dr. Forde applauded the companies’ contribution towards the island’s fight against COVID-19. Taking the time out to also wax eloquent and give credit to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Board and staff who facilitate the smooth running of the compound, Dr. Forde noted that mental and emotional wellness were cornerstones of patient care in the treating of the viral infection.
“I think a very important part of COVID management which people don’t think about is not all the fancy drugs and ventilators. Many of you might believe that, and it is partly true. But it is not the biggest part. I have always said that one of the most difficult parts of managing patients in this Facility is not actually those who are sick. Those who are sick want us to help them. Those who are not sick and asymptomatic with COVID represent one of the most challenging populations of individuals to manage because you feel well and because you feel well you think ‘I don’t need to be here. Why am I here?’ But we understand the bigger picture where that is concerned – that we have a country to protect, that we have a people to protect,” he said.
With an activities co-ordinator now onboard to offer yoga and other activities, Dr. Forde made a call to persons from cross-sections of Barbados to lend assistance towards the creation of a serenity garden as the staff continue to do their best to give patients some semblance of normalcy during their time at the facility. (MP)
