Local News News QEH: Another significant surge in patient numbers at AED Barbados Today22/02/20250961 views The Accident and Emergency Department (AED) is currently experiencing another significant surge in patient numbers, according to a statement from the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH). According to the hospital, this increase is mainly due to a rise in cases related to influenza, uncontrolled non-communicable diseases (CNCDs), and trauma cases, which include patients with gunshot or stabbing injuries and others who were involved in motor-vehicle accidents. The QEH says its AED medical team is working diligently to manage this surge. The hospital is encouraging patients to contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS/Help Desk) at 536-4800 (available via regular or WhatsApp calls) between 7 a.m. and 12 midnight for an initial assessment and guidance on their next steps for treatment. Additionally, patients are advised to visit the 24-hour clinic at the Winston Scott Polyclinic (Jemmotts Lane, St. Michael) or consult their private physician. Life-threatening conditions will continue to be treated immediately under the AED’s Triage System, the QEH says. However, patients with less urgent concerns may experience longer wait times. (PR)