HealthLocal NewsPublic Notice Increased patient volumes at Accident & Emergency Department by Barbados Today 17/02/2026 written by Barbados Today Updated by Shanna Moore 17/02/2026 1 min read A+A- Reset Share FacebookTwitterLinkedinWhatsappEmail 353 The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) advises the public that the Accident and Emergency Department (AED) is currently experiencing a significant spike in patient presentations. The department has been seeing an increasing number of trauma cases linked to personal altercations and motor vehicle accidents, along with a surge in complications related to chronic non-communicable diseases . As a result of this, waiting times are longer than usual, and the number of new patients that can be accommodated at any given time may be temporarily affected. What You Should Know Life-threatening conditions will continue to receive immediate attention in accordance with the established triage system. Patients with non-urgent conditions should anticipate extended waiting periods. Patient Advice & Guidance If you are unwell and uncertain whether you require emergency care, please contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS/Help Desk) atย 536-4800: Available via regular or WhatsApp calls,ย 8:00 a.m. to 12 midnight. โ The team can provide preliminary guidance and advise on appropriate next steps for care. Alternative Care Options: To help ease pressure on the AED, members of the public are encouraged to consider: The 24-Hour Clinic at Winston Scott Polyclinic (Jemmotts Lane, St. Michael); Consultation with your private physician, where available. Public Health Reminder Individuals visiting the Hospital are strongly encouraged to wear a mask , particularly in clinical areas, to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses and protect patients, staff, and visitors. The Queen Elizabeth Hospital apologizes for any inconvenience and appreciates the publicโs patience and cooperation as we continue to manage this elevated demand for emergency services. (PR) Barbados Today Stay informed and engaged with our digital news platform. The leading online multimedia news resource in Barbados for news you can trust. You may also like Man fatally stabbed in Black Rock 09/03/2026 Boy Scouts Association calls for volunteers to expand 08/03/2026 Free eye screenings offered across Barbados during World Glaucoma Week 08/03/2026