QEH Assures Public of Stable Blood Supply and Ongoing Laboratory Services

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) acknowledges the concerns raised regarding the availability of blood and laboratory testing in Barbados. We want to reassure the public that the current blood stock remains within our required minimum levels, and while blood availability fluctuates based on patient needs, our team is actively managing supplies to ensure continued patient care.

We recognize the vital role of blood donation in saving lives and encourage all eligible Barbadians to continue donating blood to support our healthcare system. The hospital is not facing a crisis, nor are we on the verge of running out of blood supplies. While there was a temporary reduction in reagent stock for one specific serological test (HTLV-1), this issue was swiftly identified, and the necessary resources have already arrived. There has been no interruption to blood testing or collection services.

To maintain service delivery, some laboratory operations have been temporarily relocated and outsourced as part of major remedial cleaning efforts. This is a proactive measure to enhance safety and efficiency, and at no point has this led to an inability to conduct critical testing.

The QEH remains committed to providing the highest level of care and working alongside our partners to ensure the health and safety of all patients. We urge the public to seek accurate information and avoid unnecessary panic. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please contact the QEH directly.