Despite chaotic scenes as hundreds queued for free medical services from a visiting Chinese hospital ship docked in Bridgetown, health authorities reported high public interest even as they grappled with logistical issues during the vessel’s stay.
The ship opened its doors to the public on Sunday and is scheduled to depart on Saturday.
From the early hours of the morning, Barbadians gathered at Kensington Mall to await the shuttle transporting them to the ship at Bridgetown Port. Many described the initiative as helpful and courteous.
“They are very mannerly and polite and willing to help,” said one woman who received care on the ship. “Every department knows what to do, and if you’re in the wrong area, the staff will guide you. The ship is organised, even if the lines weren’t.”
She described the ticketing process for the shuttle as chaotic and believed it could have been better organised. “The experience with the tickets was a disaster. If this is the first place you get the tickets, you should wait until everybody is seated. Instead, people bundled up and caused a little chaos.”
Minister of Health Davidson Ishmael acknowledged initial logistical challenges but said the team adapted efficiently.
He said: “I think the Chinese team expected about 250 people per session. On Sunday morning, over 330 people went through. Our colleagues graciously accommodated the extra patients, which naturally created some logistical challenges.”
Despite some confusion, patients reported financial benefits. One woman, who attended on consecutive days, said she saved more than $100 on medical tests, including an X-ray and medication for arthritis. She also received treatment for a chest condition during her second visit.
Not all experiences were straightforward. A 71-year-old woman expressed frustration with the process for a cataract examination. “They took my information and told me to come back Thursday, but they didn’t give me anything to enter the port, so I’m not sure what will happen. I hope I can get my cataract removed as promised.”
Others praised the service. An elderly man, Errol, said: “Communication was good. They saw about 500 people yesterday, pretty quickly because there’s a lot of equipment on the ship.”
Ishmael described the public response as substantial. “This is the third and final day for the public. Barbadians have come out in large numbers seeking a range of medical services.
The Chinese team has been able to confirm existing medical information and administer treatments to assist with people’s health needs.
Wednesday is reserved for special cases by appointment only, health officials said.
(LG)
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