ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, Aug 25, CMC – Health Minister Philip Telesford has confirmed that two patients who fled the isolation unit of The General Hospital while receiving treatment for tuberculosis (TB) had been found by police.
In a statement, the Health Minister said that the men, Dwight Ross and Kendell Barry, had exited the facility “without authorisation after forcing open a secured, iron gate and exiting through the rear of the compound”.
He said that nursing staff on duty at the time acted swiftly and appropriately, alerting the police immediately.
“I wish to place on record my commendation of these officers, who responded professionally under what was undoubtedly a distressing and frightening situation. No staff member was physically injured.”
Teleford said he can confirm that the two patients have since been apprehended and returned to medical supervision, thanking the “Royal Grenada Police Force for its quick action in capturing the two patients”.
Telesford said that tuberculosis is a treatable and curable disease and that patients who remain on their prescribed treatment become substantially less infectious within a short period.
“The risk to the general public from brief or passing contact is low; however, as a precaution, any person who believes they have had close or prolonged contact with either patient should visit the nearest health facility for assessment and screening. Screening and treatment are provided free of charge.”
Telesford said that the health ministry has engaged the Commissioner of Police and the Attorney General’s Chambers for guidance on the legal framework governing the detention and management of patients with highly infectious diseases who decline or abandon treatment.
“In parallel, I have directed a full review of security infrastructure and staffing arrangements at the Isolation Unit, including the physical integrity of doors, gates and perimeter access, duress alarm systems and safety protocols for staff assigned to isolation facilities and patient support, counselling and adherence services, so that patients are less likely to abandon treatment.”
He said he has also sought a review of the national TB policy framework, “in line with our commitment to eliminating tuberculosis,” adding “the safety of our healthcare workers and the protection of the public are not negotiable.
“This ministry will act decisively on the findings of the review, and the public will be updated as further information becomes available.”
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