Backlog in COVID-19 discharge certificates cleared

The wait is over for recovered COVID-19 patients in home isolation who had been awaiting discharge certificates to return to work.

Minister of Health and Wellness Ian Gooding-Edghill disclosed Wednesday that a vexing backlog that had triggered several complaints was cleared on Tuesday.

He said: “Last Wednesday, February 2, the backlog was 3 357 and went to approximately 4 400.  On Monday, February 7 a backlog of patient discharge certificates was reduced to 2 002.

“We are current with the patient Discharge Certificates and we’ve put a plan in place to remain current.”

Gooding-Edghill attributed the turnaround to the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Health and Wellness’ Information Technology Department, the polyclinics, and the home isolation team.

He explained that an interim Automated Discharge System, which will allow Discharge Certificates to be generated automatically and sent via email is in place.

In the meantime, he said, the permanent solution for the automated system in the Ministry of Health and Wellness Information System, known as Shape, is being expanded to fully reflect an integrated patient management module. The current system also takes into consideration persons diagnosed at the three private labs that are currently doing PCR tests.

The Minister urged the public to provide accurate email addresses to ensure a smooth discharge from isolation.

Gooding-Edghill assured that his ministry will continue to monitor the situation. (BT/BGIS)