Statement On The Reassignment Of Staff To District Hospitals

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Mr. Wayne Marshall, confirms that six staff members from the Geriatric Hospital have been reassigned to the District Hospitals in St. Lucy and St. Philip. He firmly rejects suggestions that these reassignments were acts of victimisation following concerns raised by nurses regarding patient allocation during the scabies outbreak, as outlined in correspondence from two workers’ unions.

Mr. Marshall explained that the decision was driven solely by the need to address acute staffing shortages at the District Hospitals and to safeguard the delivery of safe, high-quality care across all facilities. He noted that the move reflects the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to balancing resources, as earlier this year staff from the district hospitals were reassigned to the Geriatric Hospital to provide support in similar circumstances.

With regard to the concerns raised about the handling of the scabies outbreak, the Permanent Secretary emphasised that all actions taken were based on the guidance of medical and infection-control professionals, as is standard practice during such health events. Measures such as patient relocations were carried out to facilitate proper isolation, treatment, and sanitisation, ensuring the safety of both patients and staff. He stressed that there was no serious threat to health or safety as a result of these decisions.

The Permanent Secretary also acknowledged that an administrative oversight led to the citation of incorrect legislation in the letters issued. Corrected correspondence will be provided, and he reaffirmed that the reassignments were fully within his authority and did not infringe upon the rights of any officer.

Mr. Marshall further confirmed that the Ministry has already met with senior union officials regarding the matter and will be convening an additional meeting in response to the most recent letter received. Written responses will also be provided to formally outline the Ministry’s position.

He added that discussions about reassignments were held with staff of the Geriatric Hospital several months in advance, and those directly affected were notified both verbally and in writing at least two weeks prior to the effective date. While acknowledging that such changes may bring minor adjustments, Mr. Marshall urged that the broader perspective be kept in view, that is ensuring the delivery of safe, effective, and compassionate care to patients remains the Ministry’s highest priority.

MOHW

Author: Government Of Barbados

Publish: September 11, 2025