Basseterre, St. Kitts – The Ministry of Health has announced that effective December 1, 2024, visiting hours at the Joseph N. France General Hospital, Pogson Medical Centre, and Mary Charles Hospital will be extended. The new hours will run from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily, a change designed to align the nation’s healthcare services with international best practices and enhance patient care during the ongoing hospital accreditation process.
The expanded hours represent a strategic step in improving patient-centred care and fostering stronger connections between patients and their loved ones. Officials say this adjustment ensures that the country’s healthcare institutions meet global standards of accessibility and family involvement, both of which are critical to patient recovery and satisfaction.
“This policy shift underscores our commitment to putting patients at the centre of care,” said Dr Daveen Wilkin, Medical Chief of Staff at JNF General Hospital. “Family presence during the recovery process can significantly improve outcomes. These extended hours provide greater flexibility for loved ones to support their family members during hospitalisation.”
Dr. Jenson Morton, Director of Health Institutions, highlighted the alignment of the new hours with the Ministry’s larger goal of international accreditation. “Extended visiting hours are part of broader reforms aimed at ensuring our facilities provide the highest level of care. Accreditation demands we meet benchmarks of quality and accessibility, and this adjustment is a tangible step in that direction.”
The Director of Institutional Nursing Services, (Marton) Ms Kerry Williams-Tuckett, emphasised the policy’s role in fostering trust and collaboration in healthcare. “Nurses recognise the value of family support in the healing process. These extended hours provide opportunities for more meaningful interactions between patients, families, and the care team.”
The announcement also reflects the Ministry’s awareness of the emotional and mental health challenges faced by patients and their loved ones. Mr. Curtis Martin, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, endorsed the initiative, emphasising its impact on patient well-being.
“At the heart of this policy improvement are our patients and their families,” Martin said. “We recognise that hospitalisation is often a challenging time, and this change allows loved ones to play a greater role in providing comfort and care. By extending visiting hours, we are fostering a more compassionate and inclusive approach to healthcare.”
The Ministry of Health encourages the public to take full advantage of the new visiting hours, which are expected to contribute significantly to the nation’s efforts to achieve internationally recognised standards in healthcare delivery.