The Interview: January - March 2021

THE

Story on Page 39

INSIDE THE ISSUE

HELP US STOP THE SPREAD. 1

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TCI Hospital moments on the COVID-19 Vaccination trail with H. E. Governor Dakin

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TCI Hospital recognize employees during heart of health care awards

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TCI Hospital becomes Best Practice Spotlight Organisation Pre-designate

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TCI Hospital oxygen generator installation project makes significant progress

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TCI Hospital awarded Go Clear Award for smoke-free operating threatres

WASH YOUR HANDS. WEAR A MASK. WATCH YOUR DISTANCE.

THE INTERVIEW

Table of Contents InterHealth Canada - Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital is pleased to resume its quarterly newsletter following a short break in publications due to the COVID-19 pandemic and pause in events.

This edition includes several internal news from the last two quarters of 2020 and the latest activities from January 2021 to March 2021 held across the organisation.

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Native Radiographers cross-certified in Mammography

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TCI Hospital recognize employees during heart of health care awards

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TCI Hospital becomes Best Practice Spotlight Organisation Pre-designate

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COVID-19 vaccines arrive in the Turks and Caicos Islands

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TCI Hospital oxygen generator installation project makes significant progress

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TCI Hospital awarded Go Clear Award for surgical smoke-free operating threatres

WWW.TCIHOSPITAL.TC • INFO@TCIHOSPITAL.TC • FACEBOOK: @TCIHOSPITAL

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RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS PATIENTS RECEIVE SURPRISE GIFTS FOR SELF-CARE NEEDS

KE E P IN G THE H AN DS A ND BO DY CL EA N IS I M PO RTA N T TO PR E V ENT AN D R E D U C E T HE S PR EA D O F GE R M S AND IN F EC TI O NS.

Patients of all types were randomly selected to receive a surprise care package on the spot during their hospital visits as part of a special initiative called 'Random Acts of Kindness’, which commenced on August 25th, 2020.

The items were funded via a donation received from a tourist, Reg Warren, who was treated at the hospital following an accident a few years ago, and wanted to give back. The items were then selected and sourced by the hospital.

The hospital team assembled over 80 care packages as part of the random patient giveaway, which spanned several weeks. The care package items included bath brushes, hand towels, mini manicure sets, pill organizers, shampoo and conditioner, bath soap, deodorant, shaving cream, tooth paste, hair and brush, lip balm, along with other items including healthy snacks.

THE INTERVIEW

The initiative sought to assist persons during the COVID-19 pandemic with their self-care needs. Good personal hygiene is very important.

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Native Radiographers cross-certified in Mammography Two native radiographers, Latavia Ingham and Andresha Gardiner, have expanded their skillset and were recently trained and certified to perform mammography examinations.

Dawn Derenburger, Senior Consultant and Mammography Technologist at Mammography Educators, conducted the training. Derenburger is certified with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and has over 15 years of experience in mammography practice at many health care facilities.

The radiographers completed a four-week course offered by Mammography Educators, a company based in the United States. The topics covered techniques for human anatomy, physiology, physics of the breast, image quality, and correlative anatomy.

Derenburger traveled to the Turks and Caicos Islands to conduct the special hands-on training starting with a model, and she later introduced actual patients. The training was completed in December 2020.

L-R: Radiographers Andresha Gardiner, Latavia Ingham, Consultant Dawn Derenburger and Radiographer, Kirsten Hale

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CONTINUOUS LEARNING The hands-on training covered

The department now has three

standardized positioning, which is

radiographers certified in the

a technique that has been found

standardized positioning

in scientific studies to generate a

technique for Mammography,

higher-quality image, capture

including Kirsten Hale, who also

more breast tissue, and is more

completed the course as a

comfortable for mammography

refresher. There is also a fourth

patients. This approach is also

radiographer who specializes in

more ergonomically sound for the

Ultrasonography but is cross-

radiographer. In addition, this

trained in Mammography and

technique further improves the

serves as a backup.

consistency and efficiency of the

”This program was funded by the organization and is a strategic accomplishment for the health care facility. It provides the diagnostic imaging department with more scheduling flexibility, redundancy to cover periods of unexpected leave and improves continuity of the mammography service. In addition, we are committed to training and developing local talent within the health care sector, especially in fields with limited expertise in the domestic workforce."

image across patients as the angle of a patient affects the final

ELEANOR HALL CHIEF OF ALLIED SERVICES

image.

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Born on Christmas Day It's a boy!

While most residents were unwrapping presents and enjoying their family circles, the maternity team at TCI Hospital were preparing to deliver a bundle of joy.

InterHealth Canada - Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital wishes to congratulate a mother who delivered the only baby born on Christmas Day 2020 at the health care facility.

The healthy baby boy was born at 8:43 a.m. in Providenciales at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre to mother Nosthalie Mercelin and her partner. He weighed 7lbs 3oz at birth.

He was originally due to arrive last week, but for the parents, he was the perfect present on Christmas Day. In keeping with the annual tradition, the parents received a gift bathtub stocked with infant-care items, courtesy of InterHealth Canada - Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital.

Chief of Clinical Services, Mikette Been, extended her best wishes to the mother on the expansion of her family, and expressed gratitude to the hardworking doctors and nurses.

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THE INTERVIEW

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS 1ST BABY OF 2021 BORN AT COCKBURN TOWN MEDICAL CENTRE. 2ND BABY BORN IN 2021 IS ALSO A BOY! THE INTERVIEW

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InterHealth Canada TCI is pleased to announce the appointment of Doctor Denise Braithwaite-Tennant as Chief Executive Officer, effective December 1st 2020.

NATIVE OF TCI SOIL BECOMES TOP PERFORMER IN RACE FOR CEO POSITION

Doctor Braithwaite-Tennant joined the InterHealth Canada TCI team as a Lead Emergency Medicine Consultant in 2010 and was later promoted to Hospital Administrator at the Cockburn Town Medical Centre in September 2011. She returned to Providenciales in May 2014 to assume the role of Chief of Medical Services. She has served in this capacity over the years and has now become the first Belonger to be appointed as CEO of the company.

DOCTOR DENISE BRAITHWAITETENNANT APPOINTED AS CEO OF INTERHEALTH CANADA – TCI HOSPITAL

She holds a Specialist Degree in Emergency Medicine from the University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica and a Master of Science in International Management with a specialization in health sector management from the University of Liverpool. During her career, she has amassed certifications and experience in leadership, accreditation, quality, health sector management, health crisis and disaster management. This background has given her a strategic advantage to navigate the hospital team during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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"...WE SHALL ENDEAVOUR TO DRIVE HEALTH SYSTEM INGENUITY, INNOVATION AND PEOPLE CENTERED SERVICES..."

She continued: “I have gained invaluable experience and it is an honor to be among the talented and multifaceted team at InterHealth Canada TCI. I have amassed over 20 years of experience working in diverse areas and leadership roles across the health sector locally and regionally. My journey with the health care company has seen me develop from a frontline worker in the emergency department who was a part of the team that successfully managed the departments very first trauma patient, to a member of multi-stakeholder executive teams. Our key partner is the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and I shall continue our ongoing efforts to drive the strategic development and implementation of priority services.”

“On behalf of the InterHealth Canada - Board of Directors, we offer our heartiest congratulations to Doctor Braithwaite-Tennant on her appointment.

Under InterHealth Canada’s strict governance policies, the Board undertook a rigorous selection process for the appointment of its new CEO, and was unanimous in its selection of Doctor Braithwaite-Tennant who, in addition to her impeccable credentials, demonstrated qualities of vision, sense of purpose and leadership, which surpassed all other candidates. Denise joined our company at the commencement of Hospital operations in 2010 as an emergency physician, but it quickly became clear to the Board that her ultimate destiny was to lead the organization. Ten years later, with the company’s support, she has progressed to Chief Executive Officer. She has grown both in stature and experience, and now fulfills that destiny,” stated George Commander, Chairman of the Board.

He continued: “This appointment demonstrates InterHealth Canada’s commitment to the mentorship and professional development of the citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands within its organization. We are as proud today, as your Government must be, to announce this appointment. We hope that it will inspire others and serve as a demonstration that there is a wealth of talent and commitment in your Nation, which will serve it well as you continue to progress.”

Former Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Carriere, officially retired from the company last month. He stated: “The decision at the InterHealth Canada – Board of Directors level was unanimous and I strongly concur that Denise is an excellent choice and will do a wonderful job in very difficult and uncertain times. Denise is a credit to her medical profession, InterHealth Canada and to the entire country. She will now have the opportunity to extend that knowledge, determination and enthusiasm to the area of hospital administration at the CEO level.

Denise’s DNA is made up of care, compassion and a very strong work ethic, and you all know as well as I do, that Denise will be focused on the business at hand and the welfare of our people all day and every day.”

In response to her appointment, Doctor Denise Braithwaite-Tennant stated: “I am thankful for the support provided to me over the years and grateful for this opportunity to serve in this capacity. It has been an exciting journey, and I am excited about the new opportunities ahead. As the leader of a naturally excellent team, we shall endeavour to drive health system ingenuity, innovation and people centered services, especially during the pandemic, which represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of health care delivery.”

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DR DAWN PERRY-EWING APPOINTED AS CHIEF OF MEDICAL SERVICES; DR SANI AMATTI SERVES AS NEW DEPUTY CHIEF OF MEDICAL SERVICES AT INTERHEALTH CANADA – TCI HOSPITAL NEW YEAR, NEW LEADERSHIP. InterHealth Canada – Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital is pleased to announce the appointment of Doctor Dawn Perry-Ewing as Chief of Medical Services, and Doctor Sani Amatti as Deputy Chief of Medical Services, effective January 1st, 2021.

During her years of professional training, she has gained a wealth of clinical experience and knowledge from major tertiary medical institutions with which she has been affiliated in Jamaica, The Commonwealth of The Bahamas, USA and Canada.

Dr Dawn Perry-Ewing has been practicing as a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and senior administrative physician in the Turks and Caicos Islands since 2001. She holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery, Doctorate in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and a Master’s of Public Health from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore Maryland and she is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

Dr Perry-Ewing also led the team that performed the first major surgical procedure in Providenciales at the TCI Government Myrtle Rigby Health Complex in 2001, and later served as Director of Clinical Services.

She joined the InterHealth Canada - TCI Hospital in 2010 as Consultant Head of Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

THE INTERVIEW 10

TAKING OVER THE REINS OF THE PHYSICIAN DIVISION AT TCI HOSPITAL In response to her appointment, newly appointed Chief of Medical Services, Dr Dawn Perry-Ewing stated: “As a member of the healthcare provider team of the TCI Hospital, I am committed to the continued mission and vision of our organization in delivering quality healthcare to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Dr Sani Amatti is a Senior Consultant Pediatrician/ Neonatologist at the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital. He provides medical and executive oversight of the Directorate for Neonatal and Pediatric Care as the Head of the Pediatrics unit. Dr Amatti holds a Master’s in Public Health: Epidemiology, Clinical Research and Evaluation, and received his medical degree and specialization in Pediatrics and Neonatology from the Havana Higher Institute of Medical Science in Cuba.

It is my hope that the new physician leadership of the institution in these most challenging times, will provide our community, our staff and our stakeholder partners in healthcare with the support and fortitude that is so greatly required as we face 2021.”

He is fluent in Spanish, English and French and has served as a Consultant Pediatrician/ Neonatologist at the University of Botswana, Princess Marina Teaching Hospital Gaborone in Botswana, Senior Resident Pediatrician/ Neonatologist at St Ann’s Bay HospitalNorth East Regional Health Authority in Jamaica, and Resident Pediatrician/ Neonatologist at the National Reference Centre of Neonatal Care in Havana, Cuba.

Deputy Chief of Medical Services, Dr Sani Amatti stated:” I am humbled and elated to accept the call to serve as the Deputy Chief of Medical Services. I am excited about the possibilities that are ahead and the ability to contribute to the upcoming teaching hospital program and train new local junior doctors.

Dr Amatti is also a certified facilitator for the Neonatal Resuscitation Program and champions the medication reconciliation standard requirements for the hospital’s accreditation program.

I will strive not only to be a success within my role, but also to be of value to the wider community. Thank you to the entire team for your continuous support.”

Commenting on the appointments, Chief Executive Officer, Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant stated: “Dr Perry-Ewing is one of the longest serving members of the hospital medical team. She has a wide range of experience due to her years of service within the public and private sector operating at executive roles and driving strategic health system development. Dr PerryEwing has led her team in several successful accreditation projects and quality improvement initiatives. Dr Sani Amatti is passionate about people and quality improvement. He is dedicated, hardworking and an experienced specialist physician with a wealth of knowledge. He has been the lead for our medication reconciliation initiative that has won his team the Diamond Challenge.”

She continued: “Both candidates were selected following a competitive interview process involving several of our talented medical professionals. They both possess a wealth of experience, and I am confident that their input at the senior management level will add value to our operations and the wider community.”

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WE ARE THE HEART OF HEALTH CARE

OUR VISION To become naturally excellent, where everyone is envious of our culture and customers receive the full benefit of our obsession with quality.

OUR MISSION The Turks and Caicos Hospital, by nature, will exceed expectations through its commitment to professional excellence, safety to all and continuous quality improvement...

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INTERHEALTH CANADA HOSTS HEART OF HEALTH CARE AWARDS

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STANDING OVATION FOR HEALTH CARE WORKERS.

Recognition helps employees see that their company values them and their contributions to the success of their team and the company overall. This is particularly key when organisations grow or change. It helps employees to build a sense of security in their value to the company, motivating them to continue great work.

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NEWS

TCI HOSPITAL BECOMES A BEST PRACTICE SPOTLIGHT ORGANIZATION® PRE-DESIGNATE Patient and family-centered care, falls prevention and pressure ulcer strategies.

The Registered Nurses' Association

The hospital aims to enhance

of Ontario (RNAO) has selected the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital

nursing care and sustain a culture of evidence-based nursing and

as a Best Practice Spotlight Organization® (BPSO®) pre-

management decision-making practices. The virtual event

designate. The hospital has committed to the RNAO partnership

featured special remarks from Dr.

to become a BPSO® over the next three years. The designation is an internationally recognized mark of excellence in health care.

The BPSO® program was officially launched at the health care facility on Thursday, May 13th, 2021, during a virtual event held in observance of International Nurses Week.

Denise Braithwaite-Tennant Chief Executive Officer at TCI Hospital, Jackurlyn Sutton - Chief Nursing Officer at the TCI Ministry of Health, Doris Grinspun - Chief Executive Officer at The Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO), Morgan Hoffarth - President at the RNAO, and Nurse Carol Reid - Site Director at Cockburn Town Medical Centre.

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Associate Director of Guideline Implementation and Knowledge Transfer at the RNAO, Susan McNeill stated: "At RNAO, we are delighted to have the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital join our global social movement of health-care excellence. It is clear that your hospitals are already committed to doing the very best for your patients and we look forward to supporting you to successfully achieve BPSO Designation over the next three years."

Three international best practice guidelines are chosen.

Virtual presentations were

The hospital proposal to the RNAO

Chief Nursing Officer at the

delivered by Susan McNeil -

outlined several areas. These

TCI Ministry of Health,

Associate Director of

included the strategy to implement

Jackurlyn Sutton, stated:

Guidelines, Implementation

the necessary guidelines, the

"High-quality care does not

and Knowledge Transfer at the

benefits for patients, providers, and

occur automatically, but is the

RNAO, Mikette Been - Chief of

the organization, and how clinical

result of critical, independent

Clinical Services and BPSO

outcomes will be measured and

judgment and action

Lead at TCI Hospital, Maureen

evaluated. The hospital completed

(Donabedian, 2003). The TCI

Brown - Inpatient Services

the orientation process in mid-

hospital has selected three (3)

Manager, Nurse Sarah Henry -

February and is now required to

best practice initiatives for

BPSO Champion at TCI

submit an online report to the

implementation through the

Hospital, and Nurse Michael

RNAO every six months and other

BPSO program.”

Williams - Deputy Site Director

responsibilities.

at Cockburn Town Medical

She continued: “Best practice

Centre and BPSO Champion at

BPSO® is an opportunity for health

is more than practice based on

TCI Hospital.

service and academic organizations

evidence; it represents quality

to formally partner with the RNAO

care, which is deemed optimal

Patient and family-centered

to achieve the designation.

based on a prevailing standard

care, falls prevention, and

Following the three years, the

or point of view. Specific best

pressure ulcers are the three

partnership can be renewed once

practices in nursing are

international Best Practice

the objectives are accomplished.

significant because they serve

Guidelines (BPG's) selected

to direct nurses regarding

for the hospital over the next

Chief of Clinical Services at TCI

solutions to identified

three years.

Hospital, Mikette Been, stated:

problems/needs. Best

"Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital

practices can be implemented

The senior nursing leadership,

is pleased to partner with the RNAO

in the area of education,

clinical nurse educators,

to become a Best Practice Spotlight

administration, clinical and

patient care leadership

Organization. The BPSO program

theoretical concepts. I wish to

council, interprofessional

will provide a system-based

congratulate Nurse Been,

team, and the national nursing

approach to elevate the nursing

Chief of Clinical Services, and

council were a part of the BPG

standards across the TCI hospital

the entire Board of Directors at

selection process. The

through evidence-based practices.

the TCI hospital for their

selected areas align with the

As a hospital, we are committed to

ongoing vision in striving for

hospital's strategic plan and

the ongoing development of high-

excellence in the provision of

quality improvement indicators.

quality programs and providing the

quality health care for the

support necessary to implement

people of the TCI and visitors

these programs successfully."

to our shore."

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ACCREDITATION COUNTDOWN

During the final months before an international health care accreditation assessment, there is even stronger internal cohesion and motivation to ensure there remains a continued adherence to clinical and administrative service standards and required organizational practices. Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital has been accredited at the Diamond level since March 2012 and is currently one of the few Diamond accredited hospitals in the Caribbean. This is the highest level achievable under the international accreditation program.

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TCI Hospital receives additional Dialysis Nursing Support

The recently approved additional human resources will expand the department's capacity to cover treatment shifts for the next 12 months. The Hemodialysis Service consists of ten (10) Specialist Nurses and one (1) Dialysis Technician. A full-time Nephrologist supports the service.

There are six dialyzer machines and four back-up machines at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre. Cockburn Town Medical Centre has three dialyzer machines and two back-up machines.

The TCI Government cabinet approved portions of a request submitted by InterHealth Canada - Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital to expand the hemodialysis service.

The approval was granted during the first quarter of this year.

Chief of Allied Services at TCI Hospital, Eleanor Hall, stated: "We are thankful for the approval of the additional nursing staff for the dialysis unit. The treatment session for a dialysis patient is four hours in duration and occurs three times per week. The additional nurses would help us adjust treatment shifts to better hours, prepare for new patients, and reduce the extended working hours currently required to deliver treatments. The hospital's senior management team will continue to proactively discuss and seek support from TCI Government on long-term measures to meet the growing patient demand."

The private health care management company submitted a request to the TCI Government seeking additional infrastructure, equipment, and human resources to support the growing number of dialysis patients. The recent cabinet approval was to recruit two additional full-time dialysis nurses to serve 12 months as an interim measure and on an emergency basis.

The increase in the number of patients presenting to the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital with chronic diseases complicated by renal failure has been the catalyst for an expanded hemodialysis service. There is an average of six to eight new patients per annum who require dialysis treatment. There are 55 patients currently on dialysis across both medical centres, and dialysis is a life-saving treatment.

Consultant Nephrologist at TCI Hospital, Dr. Vancelee Forbes, stated: "The dialysis unit welcomes this muchneeded increase in staff as an interim measure to improve safety and increase the capacity of the dialysis unit at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre. We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Turks and Caicos Islands Government to improve services, including facilitating the growth of the home dialysis program and increasing opportunities for kidney transplantation."

According to the Pan American Health Organization, chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been identified as an increasing public health issue worldwide and deserves focused attention in the Americas.

Globally, diabetes mellitus and hypertension are the major causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). A similar picture is also accurate for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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THE I NTERVIEW

The Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital laboratory becomes the primary mass storage center for the country’s COVID-19 vaccines, which are temperature sensitive.

THE FIRST BATCH OF COVID-19 VACCINES ARRIVE IN TCI The first batch of COVID-19 vaccines arrived in the country on Thursday, January 7, 2021.

Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands, His Excellency Nigel Dakin, Deputy Governor, Her Excellency Anya Williams, Director of Health Disaster at TCI Government, Charlene Higgs, Primary Healthcare Manager, Nurse Alrisa Gardiner, Logistics Director, Major Lucy Valentine, and Public Health England Representative, Thomas Munday were present to meet the British Airways flight at the airport and receive the vaccines.

Graceway IGA provided the refrigeration facility to transport the vaccines from the airport to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre. Chief Executive Officer at TCI Hospital, Dr. Denise Braithwaite, and other team members received the vaccines at the TCI Hospital in preparation for the first cycle of vaccine administrations on Monday, January 11, 2021.

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COVID-19 vaccines relocated to final storage at TCI Hospital

THE INTERVIEW

National Press Conference on COVID-19 vaccine arrival Priority groups included healthcare workers, elderly persons, frontline workers, and those with chronic non-communicable diseases.

National press conference on COVID-19 vaccine arrival

COVID-19 vaccinated staff at TCI Hospital

Following the arrival of the first batch of COVID-19 vaccines, a press conference was held the following day at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre to update the country on the national vaccination plan and the administration process.

The TCI Government Minister of Health and Human Services, Honourable Edwin Astwood, and Primary Health Care Manager, Nurse Alrisa Gardiner, gave remarks as head of the COVID-19 vaccination program.

As a key partner in health care, Chief Executive Officer at InterHealth Canada – TCI Hospital, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, was also present and spoke about the hospital’s involvement in the laboratory storage of the vaccine and provided medical insight into the technology used to create the vaccine and hospital readiness.

Frontline healthcare workers are among the priority groups to voluntarily receive the vaccine once the process commences. The TCI Government Primary Health Care Department initially performed vaccinations at their clinics located within the TCI Hospital medical centers. Five private medical facilities were later classified as approved COVID-19 vaccine administration centers to accelerate the distribution process.

The vaccine is administered free of charge to residents of the country.

Frontline health care workers were among over 300 persons in the TCI who were vaccinated within the first week of the COVID-19 vaccination program launch on Monday, January 11, 2021. The first day of vaccinations was broadcast live from the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre.

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THE INTERVIEW

Second batch: 23,400 doses arrive in TCI On February 25, 2021, the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Government - Ministry of Health, Primary Health Care Department received 23,400 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine -the second batch Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines to arrive in the country.

As of Sunday, March 14, 2021, a total of 11,283 persons in the Turks and Caicos Islands had received their first dose of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. This figure included: 9416 persons on the island of Providenciales; 1,181 on the island of Grand Turk; 264 on the island of South Caicos; 201 on the island of Parrot Cay; 181 on the islands of North and Middle Caicos and 40 persons on the island of Salt Cay. Based on data from the Turks and Caicos Islands Statistics Department, which estimates a population of 45,542 persons resident in the islands in 2020, 32% of the estimated adult population of approximately 35,000 persons have been vaccinated in the islands as of the above date.

Second batch arrives at TCI Hospital

As of March 14, 2021, the Turks and Caicos islands recorded a 32% COVID-19 Vaccination Rate. This figure continued to increase.

Third batch: 14,040 PfizerBioNTech doses arrive in TCI

Media event to mark first day of vaccinations

On March 31st, 2021, the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Government - Ministry of Health, Primary Health Care Department received a third batch of vaccines. A further 14,040 of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine arrived on a special 22

chartered British Airways flight along with 300 doses of the Astra Zeneca vaccine to provide residents and clinicians with an additional choice.

Selfie moments on the COVID-19 vaccine trail H.E. Governor Nigel Dakin and CEO, Dr. Denise BraithwaiteTennant attended several COVID-19 vaccination sessions January 7th, 2021 "Dr Denise Braithwaite and myself had a tremendously helpful conversation with the Pastors yesterday, hosted for us by Bishop Cox at the Rock of Jesus Church in Five Cays. The DG was also present. ...They asked a full range of well informed questions and I hope we were able to give comprehensive answers about the vaccine. There’s a promise from us - to them - that we are available whenever needed to answer whatever is required; we meet again soon. Critically, the Pastors can help guide us in understanding concerns their congregations may have - a good example of their leadership role...."

January 23rd, 2021 - "Creole Radio 95.1 FM. Engaging with the Haitian community in a live “phone in”, in conversation with Dr Denise Braithwaite, the CEO of the Hospital, and Pastors Jacques Phanor and Pastor Alces Dor (with great translation provided by both).

Lots of excellent questions from the Pastors who had taken considerable time to inform themselves both through their own research and attending meetings we’ve held with spiritual leaders in TCI. And also great questions from the audience..."

Efforts targeted non-English speaking communities March 12th, 2021 - "Talking “Vaccine” on a phone-in, with the Haitian community, with Dr Denise Braithwaite.

With thanks to the host, Joseph Vixaille, his “Hope” Radio Station, and his excellent translation, we had over two hours on air answering Joseph’s questions, and taking calls from the Haitian community on both the virus and the vaccine.

Through some smart engineering the four Haitian radio stations were linked together so we were on 89.7, 91.5, 89.7 and 106.3 concurrently..."

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HEALTH

OUR PATIENTS. OUR PEOPLE. OUR PROSPERITY.

EDUCATION covid-19 vaccine

Several physicians employed at InterHealth Canada - TCI Hospital have combined their voices and medical expertise to share information and advocate for choosing the COVID-19 vaccine during national vaccination campaigns.

Dr. Vancelee Forbes participated in an interview on the topic: “What is it and is it safe?” The episode was aired on Radio Turks and Caicos (RTC) on January 6th, 2021.

TCI Hospital CEO, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant also participated in an interview on the national broadcast station as part of the Ask the Doctor series. The episode was aired on January 11th, 2021.

Dr. Henry Blythe participated in a similar interview on January 20th, 2021 to discuss the COVID-19 vaccine.

Dr. Roxanne Allen participated in another episode, which was released via the TCI Government Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit social media page on January 26th, 2021.

Dr. Sani Amatti and Dr. Sonia Mera participated in an infomercial for the TCI Government, which addressed common myths associated with the COVID-19 vaccine. The infomercial targeted French and Spanish speaking audiences and communities.

OUTREACH 24

COUGH & SNEEZE ETIQUETTE

COVID-19 Proper cough and sneeze etiquette helps to prevent the spread of germs that can make you and others sick. It's simple, remember to cover your cough.

According to The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, cough etiquette is important for infection control measures in healthcare settings such as doctor’s offices and emergency departments, as well as clinics. It’s also important to practice proper etiquette at your workplace or anywhere where there are crowds of people.

3

Don’t have a tissue? Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.

4

Remember to wash your hands with warm soap and water after coughing or sneezing.

5

It’s important to keep your hands clean as many viruses are spread by not washing your hands properly with soap and clean, running water.

6

If soap and water are unavailable, use an hand sanitiser containing at least 70% alcohol.

COVER YOUR COUGH

1

It is important to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough and sneeze.

2

Place your used tissue into the trash bin. Don’t leave used tissues around on chairs, desks or other shared areas.

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PATIENT SAFETY WEEK 2021

The Turks and Caicos Islands

Everyone interacts with the health

Hospital joined the rest of the

care system at some point in life,

world in observance of Patient

and everyone has a role to play in

Safety Awareness Week on March

advancing safe health care.

14th to 20th, 2021, under the theme, “We are safer, better,

Several activities held were aligned

stronger together.”

with the hospital’s six patient safety competencies, which are as

Patient Safety Awareness Week is

follows: Contribute to Culture of

an annual recognition event

Patient Safety; Work in Teams for

intended to encourage everyone to

Patient Safety; Communicate

learn more about health care

Effectively for Patient Safety;

safety. Preventing harm in health

Manage Safety Risks; Optimize

care settings is a public health

human and Environmental factors;

concern.

Recognize, respond to and Disclose Adverse Events.

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UNITED FOR PATIENT SAFETY

A patient safety display and bulletin board competition were held across both medical centers. Some of the areas emphasized included handwashing compliance, falls reduction, pressure ulcer reduction, sepsis, deep vein thrombosis prevention, postpartum hemorrhage, infection prevention and control, and safety culture. In addition, the judges looked for innovation, creativity, patient safety goals, mitigation strategies, measures, and outcomes. Patient safety quotes were also displayed by staff throughout the hospital.

The ‘room of horrors’ has become a staple activity during patient safety week at the hospital and serves as an exciting risk assessment challenge. As part of the challenge, staff was sent an image via email of a room on the general ward that an actor patient occupied.

The patient was called Miss Mayhem. The first team member to correctly identify and list all of the safety issues was declared the winner.

Peers were also encouraged to nominate a staff who openly advocates for keeping clients safe.

The nominees received a certificate of appreciation.

Other activities included a ‘Good Catch,” during which employees were encouraged to email a moment where a staff member averted a potential patient safety risk or event. The program will continue on an annual basis, and an “All-Star” will be identified as the “Most Valuable Player of the Year.” In addition, there was a virtual continuous medical education (CME) session on violence prevention in healthcare settings and risk prevention through self-assessment tools and checklists.

The flagship initiative was the red ribbon event, during which a patient safety pledge was unveiled and signed by management and staff to demonstrate their renewed commitment to patient safety.

Commenting on the event, Isha Honore, Quality Risk and Patient Safety Manager at TCI Hospital, stated: “Patient Safety is a team effort, and this is particularly important in high-risk environments such as hospitals. No man is an island, and no problem has ever been solved in a silo. There is room for everyone within a team, and the showcase of teamwork is what allows us to accomplish our patient safety goals.”

27

Patient Safety measures aim to prevent and reduce risks, errors and harm that can occur to patients during the provision of health care. A cornerstone of the discipline is continuous improvement based on learning from errors and adverse events. Patient safety is fundamental to delivering quality essential health services.

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WORKSTATION HYGIENE

COVID-19 Persons can contract COVID-19 by touching contaminated surfaces or objects and then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. Infected droplets may fall on nearby surfaces and objects. Reduce the risks of secondary transmission.

High touch surfaces such as phones, door handles, light switches, faucet handles and chairs frequently come in contact with hands.

Persons should play close attention to keeping high-touch surfaces clean and disinfected to prevent the spread of viruses. Even if the surface doesn't appear dirty, germs and viruses can easily hide on equipment.

DISINFECT REGULARLY

1

2

4

Frequently dust and wipe off pieces of equipment with disinfectant products or wipes.

These low-cost measures can help prevent the spread of infections in your workplace and protect your customers, contractors and employees.

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DONT FORGET TO CLEAN Cell phones, chargers and headphones Personal Spectacles/Eye Glasses Personal equipment such as pens and dictaphones Computer mouse, key pad and mouse mat, memory sticks etc.

Access Passes Desk, drawer handles, chair arms, filing cabinet, cupboard handles etc.

Printer buttons

TCI HOSPITAL COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE RESUME MEETINGS ON VIRTUAL PLATFORMS WITH FRESH TOPICS

The Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital

During the month of March, Chief

resumed its Community Advisory

Executive Officer at TCI Hospital, Dr.

Committee (CAC) meetings via virtual

Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, presented

mediums after a hiatus, which was

the company’s strategic objectives for

partly attributed to the COVID-19

the next four years and canvassed

pandemic. The first virtual meeting was

recommendations from CAC members

held on Thursday, February 25th, 2021,

on essential areas to the community.

with new and returning members of the CAC, and the session recorded high

Chief of Medical Services at TCI

attendance and participation.

Hospital, Dr. Dawn Perry-Ewing, is earmarked to present on the hospital’s

Head of Family Medicine at TCI

partnership and responsibility in the

Hospital, Dr. Henry Blythe, presented a

national blood replacement program in

people-centered project, which seeks to

April. This session seeks to provide

improve health behaviors and health

members with insight into the current

outcomes for persons diagnosed with

program and explore new opportunities

diabetes in the country. The plan is to

to better leverage community and

achieve these goals by implementing

corporate partnerships.

Diabetes Self-Management Education

Representatives of the TCI Red Cross

and Support (DSMES) services.

are special guests.

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PEOPLE CENTERED CARE Meetings were traditionally held once every quarter, but due to a pause in physical meetings, which were partly attributed to the pandemic, virtual sessions are hosted every month to compensate for the loss of time.

Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant will

As of January 2020, the membership

return to the presenter line-up during the

comprised of the following persons:

month of May to delve into a proposed

Keno Forbes, Alfonso Palatino, Rochelle

patient portal. A patient portal is a secure

Thompson, Sonia K Williams, Stacy Cox,

online platform that gives patients

Mary Simmons, Police Officer Jerome

convenient access to certain personal

Caley, Pastor Alces Dor, Rosemary

health information. Information

Jolly, and Candido Moreno. Members

Management and Technology Manager

hail from different professions and walk

at TCI Hospital Ryan Smith is also an

of life.

essential resource for the session.

There are two ex-officio hospital The CAC is an advisory body, which

members -- the Chief Executive Officer

comprises ten (10) family, patient, and or

and the Public Relations/Marketing

community representatives who are not

Manager whose roles help enhance

directly affiliated with InterHealth Canada

CAC activities. Other attendees are by

- Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital.

invitation only based on the agenda.

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NEW HEALTH MINISTER TOURS TCI HOSPITAL BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE COUNTRY'S ONLY SECONDARY HEALTH CARE FACILITY

TCI Minister of Health (Top Left)

Newly Elected Members of Parliament makes inaugural tour of Cheshire Hall Medical Centre to assess the COVID-19 response The incoming Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Agriculture, Sports and Human Services, Honourable Erwin Jay Saunders, and Member of Parliament, Honourable Jamell Robinson conducted a tour of the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre in Providenciales on Tuesday, February 23rd, 2021 to review the hospital’s current operational status and the COVID-19 response.

The island of Providenciales has been the epicenter for COVID-19 cases and the medical center has cared for 98% of COVID-19 patient admissions. The national management and stabilization of the COVID-19 pandemic is a major issue on the incoming Government’s agenda, and the newly elected officials were eager to understand the latest developments at the secondary health care level.

Chief Executive Officer at InterHealth Canada - Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital, Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant and General Manager of Facilities, Martin Dawtry, spearheaded the 2-hour tour. Special areas of interest were the hospital’s 749 square meter shelled space, which can be developed to increase the hospital’s capacity as a long-term resolution.

The area was constructed since the inception of the hospital as a spare unfinished space for any future expansion needs, and is temporarily used as storage for hospital supplies.

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expanded capacity The Outpatient Department renovation project was another key area. The duo examined 12 consultation rooms, which were retrofitted with medical gas lines for oxygen support, inpatient beds and other biomedical equipment late last year. Resources are pre-deployed into the area only under circumstances where the number of COVID-19 patient admissions exceed the bed capacity of the General Wards. Six Outpatient Department consultation rooms were also retrofitted at the Cockburn Town Medical Centre in Grand Turk for the same purpose.

Other departments visited during the tour include the Maternity Ward, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, General Ward, Surgical Suites, Radiology, Laboratory, the Emergency Department and designated areas used for the assessment of suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases. The tour was followed by an introductory meeting with the hospital’s senior management team. The incoming elected officials are due to be officially sworn into parliament this week after the national General Election, which was held on February 19th, 2021.

MP Hon. Jamell Robinson (Foreground)

The area was constructed since the inception of the hospital as a spare unfinished space for any future expansion needs, and is temporarily used as storage for hospital supplies.

Honourable Jamell Robinson stated: “As a first visit, it was great to see the inner workings of the TCI Hospital as a Member of Parliament rather than a patient. I think we are blessed to have the facility and the ability to do the type of expansion that we need to be able to cater to our normal patients, in addition to our response to the COVID-19 pandemic that is ongoing. It is very promising, and we look forward to working closely with InterHealth Canada – Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital and the Ministry of Health to stabilize the pandemic until the vaccines have been fully distributed.”

Commenting on the tour, Honourable Erwin Jay Saunders stated: “It was a great tour. I am happy that we were able to conduct this tour of the facility from the top to the bottom to see what is happening. I believe the team is doing a fantastic job with the available resources, and we look forward to working with InterHealth Canada – Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital in a partnership approach to provide the community with quality health care.”

Chief Executive Officer at InterHealth Canada - Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital, Dr Denise Braithwaite -Tennant said: “It was a very productive visit, and we are grateful that the Members of Parliament took the opportunity to see the excellent groundwork that has been reached with the Outpatient Department Renovation Project, and other projects that were achieved collaboratively with the TCI Government. It was also important for the MP’s to examine the shelled space as this is a pivotal moment in time that requires a discussion on the development of this space to expand critical care and additional inpatient beds. This would allow us to remain sustainable and resilient for the future."

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NEWS

TCI Hospital CEO and Chief of Medical Services participate in Ask The Doctor Live Panel on Digicel

THE INTERVIEW

The TCI Government, in partnership with Digicel, hosted a live Ask the Doctors panel discussion on Thursday, March 25th, 2021, at Beaches Resort. The initiative sought to provide the community with the latest scientific updates and address questions and concerns related to the COVID-19 vaccine.

The TCI Government seeks to achieve herd immunity by vaccinating 70% of the adult population. The panel discussion spanned two hours and covered several core areas. Nikira John – Public Relations and Marketing Manager at TCI Hospital moderated the discussion, which was aired live on the Digicel TV network and Facebook page.

The Government panel comprised of His Excellency Nigel Dakin – Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Her Excellency Anya Williams – Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Hon. Erwin Jay Saunders – Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Human Services and Alrisa Gardiner, Primary Health Care Manager within the TCI Government Ministry of Health. This segment provided an overview of the national vaccination program and the latest trends.

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MYTHS AND COMMON DRIVERS OF VACCINE HESITANCY WERE ADDRESSED. The physician panel comprised of Dr. Daren Hall – President of TCI Medical Association, Dr. Jeremy Myers – Deputy Chief Medical Officer, TCIG Ministry of Health, Dr. Dawn Perry-Ewing – Chief of Medical Services, TCI Hospital, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, Chief Executive Officer, TCI Hospital and Dr. Dawn O’Sullivan – General Practitioner at Associated Medical Practice. This segment covered medical questions specific to the COVID-19 vaccine.

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TCHTA STAR AWARDS

HOSPITAL STAFF RECEIVE TCHTA PANDEMIC ICON AWARD AT THE STAR AWARDS. Congratulations to persons who were nominated and received the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s Pandemic Icon Award at the Star Awards.

The event was held on the croquet lawn at The Palms on Thursday, February 25th 2021 and activities were designed in accordance with COVID-19 protocols.

The following employees were also bestowed the Pandemic Icon Award for their frontline and behind the scenes role in the hospital's COVID-19 response.

Nurse Surbrena Pedican - Infection prevention and control - Hospital and National Training

Hospital CEO, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant with InterHealth Canada's Pandemic Icon Award and Certificate of Recognition

Dr Evelyn Castellanos - Critical Care Management

Dr Jaiyesh Kumar - Critical Care

Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant -

Management

Hospital Covid-19 Response

hospital workers, the organisation at large

Dr Carol Thompson-Forbes -

Dr Alfredo for the Cuban Brigade -

was also awarded for the TCHTA Pandemic

Emergency Care and Response

Humanitarian Human Capacity

Icon Award.

Nurse Jolly Kurien - Critical Care and

Support

Care coordination

Maureen Brown - Care Management

Karen Bartholomew - Facilities

and Coordination for the inpatient care

Operational Response

Debra Bagot - Care Coordination Nikira John - Communications 36

In recognition of the contributions of all

TH E IN TER VIEW

TCI HOSPITAL RECOGNISED AMONG PANDEMIC HEROES BY HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Pandemic heroes were honored on Human Rights Day in a special awards ceremony held at the Shore Club Resort on Thursday, December 10th, 2020 in Providenciales.

Persons who demonstrated acts of heroism and supported others during the pandemic were nominated by the public. These included residents and nongovernmental organisations that showcased acts of kindness.

The staff at InterHealth Canada - TCI Hospital along with Chief Executive Officer, Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant were also recognised among the 2020 Pandemic Heroes by the Human Rights Commission as part of the awards ceremony.

Human Resources Manager at InterHealth Canada - TCI Hospital, Lorenzo Seymour, stated: “We are very proud of our staff and greatly appreciate this special recognition of their hard work, dedication, commitment, and personal sacrifices that were throughout the year, and especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

We also take this opportunity to salute one of our 2020 Pandemic Heroes, Human Rights Director, Sabrina Green, who leveraged the various NGO's to collectively support several hospital patients in need, and also our hard working and phenomenal partners and fellow awardees apart of the Ministry of Health Team.

VIRTUAL BEST WISHES Board members and other employees within the InterHealth Canada network of branches across the globe joined voices in a special video compilation to send best wishes to the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital on being recognised as a pandemic hero by the Human Rights Commission.

On December 10th, 2020, health care workers were among many entities and individuals deemed 'Pandemic Heroes' by the Human Rights Commission. The year 2020 has been a challenging period for everyone, everywhere around the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the journey continues.

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COVID-19 Survivor, Ansa Wilson during reflections.

WE HONOR AND REFLECT

The Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital, in partnership with the TCI Government, hosted a special ceremony to mark one year since the detection of the first COVID-19 case in the country.

The observance was held inside the Healing Gardens at both the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre and Cockburn Town Medical Centre on Tuesday, March 23rd, 2021. These were separate events with different speakers who collectively honored and reflected on the lives impacted by the pandemic from a local context.

Speakers across both events included members of the TCI Hospital management team, senior government officials, and frontline health care workers within the hospital and Ministry of Health, along with COVID-19 survivors.

His Excellency Nigel Dakin Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Her Excellency Anya Williams - Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos

Islands, and Dr. Denise Braithwaite Tennant - Chief Executive Officer at TCI Hospital and Dr. Dawn Perry-Ewing - Chief of Medical Services at TCI Hospital delivered special remarks at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre event.

Hon. E-Jay Saunders - Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Desiree Lewis – Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Health, Carol Reid – Site Director at Cockburn Town Medical Centre and Aldora Robinson – Director of Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit within the Ministry of Health delivered remarks at the Cockburn Town Medical Centre event.

Past patients Ann Forbes and Ansa Wilson shared their deeply emotional and lifechanging experiences battling the COVID19 disease as survivors.

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Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant InterHealth Canada - TCI Hospital Chief Executive Officer

"Our own resiliency as a hospital has been tested and we are still standing. This year our bed occupancy peaked at 155% (that is eleven more beds above our 20-bed hospital capacity), multiple persons on ventilators across both centers, consuming large amounts of oxygen and other supplies, with long days and long nights delivering care, working strategically to balance resources, staff and patient safety and wellbeing. Countless meetings were held internally and with government leveraging our partnership for the greater good of the community and the teams that depend on us. Thank you, TCI Hospital, Ministry of Health team and other frontline workers. You continue to be our pandemic heroes. We thank you so very much!"

Health care workers within the COVID-19 circle of care also shared their personal experiences working on the frontline.

Speakers included Dr. Jeremy Myers Deputy Chief Medical Officer within the Ministry of Health, Alrisa Gardiner Primary Health Care Manager within the Ministry of Health, Dr. Vancelee Forbes Internist and Nephrologist at TCI Hospital, Dexter Tobias - Emergency Department Nurse at TCI Hospital Shawna Robinson Emergency Medical Technician within the Ministry of Health.

Dr. Roxanne Allen – Emergency Department Physician at TCI Hospital, Nurse Vanderzee Forbes-Warlock - Nurse Supervisor at the TCI Wellness Centre, Monica Ayunon – General Ward Nurse at TCI Hospital, Angela Campbell-Fraser Public Health Nurse, Ministry of Health, and Lacey-Ann Davis - Emergency Medical Technician within the Ministry of Health were among the speaker line-at the Cockburn Town Medical Centre event.

The ceremonies included a moment of silence in remembrance of the lives lost to the virus and a saxophone musical rendition. Pastor Mary Forbes and Nurse Carl Lewis delivered a special prayer for COVID-19 patients, frontline workers, grieving families, and the community.

Cheshire Hall Medical Centre

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Cockburn Town Medical Centre

COVID-19 Survivor, Ann Forbes during reflections.

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MINISTER OF HEALTH THANKS CUBAN TEAM FOR EXTENDED MEDICAL SUPPORT A Cuban medical contingent arrived in the Turks and Caicos Islands on Monday, June 15th, 2020, to provide additional medical support to the country in response to the peak Coronavirus.

Most members from the original team of 9 medical doctors, ten registered nurses, and one health care administrator have continued to provide support to the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital nearly one year later.

The Minister of Health and Deputy Premier, Honourable Erwin Jay Saunders, met with the head of the contingent, Dr. Alfredo Fernandez, to express his gratitude to his team for the support rendered.

The Interview

42

THE INTERVIEW

OXYGEN

GENERATOR InterHealth Canada - Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital in partnership with the Turks and Caicos Islands Government, continues to monitor and manage various critical resources that can affect the hospital's capacity during the COVID-19 national response. These include the availability of hospital beds, personal protective equipment (PPE), human resources, and oxygen.

The installation of an oxygen generator system at the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital commenced in early March. The project seeks to provide the hospital with the equipment to independently produce medical-grade oxygen and reduce the reliance on overseas suppliers.

THIS REPRESENTS A TREMENDOUS ACHIEVEMENT IN OUR PANDEMIC AND DISASTER RESILIENCY.

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GLANCE AT THE FIRST MODULE TO BE INSTALLED The system design and layout process are underway, and the overall project is expected to span 10 to 12 weeks. A duplex MDOCS 200 VSA oxygen generation system will be installed at both the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre on Providenciales and Cockburn Town Medical Centre on Grand Turk.

During the installation process, the hospital can utilize an emergency provision to rapidly install an oxygengenerator module if there are supply-chain difficulties encountered with the shipment of oxygen cylinders.

COVID-19 is a respiratory virus, and due to the nature of the disease, the virus can affect the lungs and impair a patient's ability to intake sufficient oxygen.

Therefore, oxygen is the mainstay of clinical therapy for patients admitted with severe COVID-19 disease, and for these reasons, piped oxygen demands are naturally higher during the pandemic.

44

The supply and consumption rate of oxygen is actively monitored in conjunction with the patient admission and discharge trends.

Oxygen supply levels can fluctuate daily based on patient care needs and the length of inpatient stay for COVID-19 patients. Oxygencylinders are ordered on a rotation cycle, and approximately 100 or more cylinders arrive from overseas every week to bolster supply levels. Liquid oxygen cylinders are also used, which provides the health care facility with an even higher storage capacity.

The project is government-funded, and InterHealth Canada, the hospital's private health care management company, is specifically responsible for the coordination and logistics onsite. A robust phase of quality assurance checks was completed to ensure the requisite standards and technical specifications were met before the installation contract.

Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Agriculture and Human

The project leads for the oxygen generator implementation

Services, Honorable Erwin Jay Saunders, stated: "The Ministry

are Ms. Florinda Talbot, MOH Contract Manager, and Martín

of Health (MOH) has been working closely with TCI Hospital

Dawtry, our facilities General Manager and strongly supported

since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure that capacity

by the AG Chambers. The project leads have all worked

was built at the hospitals to respond to this public health

passionately with both the hospital and MOH teams to bring

emergency, being the only secondary care facilities in the TCI. A

this new and potentially life-saving technology to the Islands

joint plan of work was undertaken and funded by the TCIG and

and continue to do so as the contractor progresses the

included the uplift of additional beds at both sites, including

installation. It is through a collaborative and visionary

furniture, procurement of biomedical equipment and

relationship with the Turks and Caicos Islands Government

consumables for these beds, procurement of personal protective

that great successes are achieved for the community.”

equipment (PPE), facilitating additional clinical staffing from Cuba as well as the development of a capacity to generate

Chief of Medical Services at TCI Hospital, Dr. Dawn Perry-

oxygen within the TCI for the first time. Previously, the TCI has

Ewing, stated: "The upscaling of TCI Hospital's capacity to

relied on the importation of medical-grade oxygen for use in the

deliver care to patients during this pandemic makes the

hospital and clinics. The oxygen generators were purchased and

nation's healthcare system even more resilient. This project is

are in-country, and works are underway to install and

the result of a collaboration between the TCI Government and

commission these generators. This initiative will be sustainable in

TCI Hospital. The welcomed arrival of the generators gives

allowing the hospitals to generate oxygen in the country during

our operating team a wider margin of comfort as we can

the pandemic and beyond and no longer rely on external

consistently provide a higher standard of care to our patients."

sources. We are excited about this development and the partnership which has led to this point and look forward to the

Contract Manager at the TCI Government Contract

implementation of these devices as a part of the ongoing COVID-

Management Unit, Florinda Talbot, stated: "Hospitals all over

19 response."

the world realize that onsite oxygen generation provides a highly reliable and economical solution for their oxygen

Chief Executive Officer at TCI Hospital, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-

requirement. This includes directly supplying oxygen to the

Tennant, stated: "This represents a tremendous achievement in

hospital's in-house supply lines, filling cylinders to provide

our pandemic and disaster resiliency. The genesis of this project

backup or supply for over-peak demands. I am elated to see

came about as a result of a task force commissioned in the early

that the TCI Hospital has arrived at this stage."

months of the pandemic. The task force was led by PS Desiree Lewis, supported by specialist advisors from the UK and

General Manager of Facilities at TCI Hospital, Martin Dawtry,

members of the hospital and team health. During the ensuing

stated: "This is a great partnership initiative, which allows the

months, we conducted robust data analysis and scenario

health care facility to generate its medical grade oxygen, not

planning, and the outcomes are the hospital and system

only for this current pandemic but for future resilience. We will

developments that are progressively being implemented by

also have the ability to produce medical-grade oxygen to fill

various project leads. t was also important that the oxygen

our cylinders to support oxygen needs for community clinics

generating capacity be present at both the Providenciales and

across the islands. The installation works will add to our

Grand Turk facilities, which seek to build redundancy and

existing long list of resources implemented at TCI hospital to

resiliency. This is especially important when one considers that

improve patient care during this pandemic and support

each facility for periods has to operate without the support of its

additional capacity."

sister facility during a disaster.

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NEWS

TCI HOSPITAL ACHIEVES INTERNATIONAL GOLD RANKING FOR SMOKE-FREE OPERATING THEATRES Turks and Caicos Islands is the first country in the Caribbean to receive this award level.

InterHealth Canada - Turks and Caicos Islands

Since inception, the operating theatres have been

Hospital has earned the Go Clear Award™ - Gold

equipped with the medical devices and resources

Level for its achievement in the elimination of

necessary to evacuate surgical smoke during all

hazardous smoke during surgical procedures.

smoke-generating procedures.

The Go Clear Award is presented by the Association

Surgical smoke is the unwanted by-product of energy-

of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) to recognize health care facilities that have committed

generating devices that are used in 90% of all surgeries. Its contents include toxic chemicals such as

to practices that eliminate smoke caused by the use

benzene, formaldehyde, hydrogen cyanide and carbon

of lasers and electrosurgery devices during surgery.

monoxide, viruses, bacteria, blood and cancer cells.

Gold level is the highest rank achievable under the program.

Inhalation and absorption of surgical smoke pose serious health risks to patients and surgical staff.

The AORN is the leader in advocating for excellence

Studies compare the inhalation of smoke from

in perioperative practice and healthcare. The hospital

vaporized human tissue to the smoke created by

submitted one-year of data as evidence that the

cigarettes; the average daily impact of surgical smoke to the surgical team is equivalent to inhaling 27-30

comprehensive requirements established by the AORN related to smoke evacuation were met.

unfiltered cigarettes.

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THE INTERVIEW

2

1

3

4

Today, it is estimated only 50% of health care workers across the U.S. understand the hazards of smoke exposure.

According to the Association of Perioperative Nurses (AORN), the need to evacuate and appropriately filter surgical smoke is being recognized around the world as countries move to provide a safer environment for both perioperative personnel and patients. More than 500 surgical teams worldwide have adopted the program.

Chief of Clinical Services at TCI Hospital, Mikette Been stated: “The receipt of the Go Clear Award supports our commitment to protect patients and healthcare workers through the use of best practices that eliminate the presence of harmful surgical smoke. I wish to congratulate the multidisciplinary team for their hard work on this project.”

Commenting on the award, Surgical Services Manager at TCI Hospital, Pheona Brown-Watson stated: “The Turks and Caicos Islands is the first country in the Caribbean to receive this award level. This achievement is an indication of our continuous commitment to the health and safety of our staff and our patients. As a teaching hospital, we are building a strong foundation to sustain quality patient care.”

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NEWS

Private companies give back to TCI Hospital staff on Thankful Thursdays Health care workers were showered with gifts donated by private companies over recent weeks as part of a 'Thankful Thursday' initiative launched by InterHealth Canada – Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

THE INTERVIEW 48

NEWS

PHARMACY TEAM WITH AMANYARA DONATION

The initiative was launched on Thursday, February

Gilley's Enterprise was the next company that gave

25th, 2021, to complement the company's ongoing

back to nearly 300 employees of the health care facility

staff welfare program, and encourage employees to

on Thursday, March 11th, 2021. Every employee

express gratitude in various ways during the

received a wrapped combo of its famous cake and Fiji

COVID-19 pandemic that has affected people's lives

water as a palette cleanser.

and livelihoods. Thus far, four private companies have participated in the delivery of surprise items

On Thursday, March 18th, 2021, Amanyara Resort

on a selected Thursday of the month.

delivered platters of assorted danish pastries and cake to departments across the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre

Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort and Spa delivered

and Cockburn Town Medical Centre. Staff were grateful

nearly a dozen pizzas for each department at the

for the surprise. This was the 4th company to give back

Cheshire Hall Medical Centre on the initiative's first day.

to health care workers on “Thankful Thursday”. TCI

InterHealth Canada purchased additional pizzas for the

Government Ministry of Health Primary health care

Cockburn Town Medical Centre to mark the occasion.

partners that operate within the hospital buildings were also included in the distribution. The goodies were

The second corporate partner to demonstrate

freshly baked, mouthwatering and irresistible even if you

appreciation to health care workers was Graceway IGA

didn’t have a weakness for sweetness.

that delivered large fresh fruit baskets for every department at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre on

Health care workers have been working passionately

Thursday, March 4th, 2021. Edith Cox, Group Vice

and tirelessly to deliver services amid the pandemic.

President of Graceway IGA, and Tamell Seymour,

During 'ThankfulThursday,' staff are encouraged to

Graceway Smart Store Manager, distributed the

show appreciation for their teams, encourage patients to

surprise items.

live with gratitude amid their illness, and write down two things they are thankful for.

Inpatients on the General Ward at the Cockburn Town Medical Centre in Grand Turk received gift baskets

The hospital has expressed tremendous gratitude to the

stuffed with self-care items and food products as a

companies that have supported the occasion thus far

bonus. Each employee at the medical centre also

with acts and words of kindness.

received a $10.00 gift certificate, courtesy of Graceway IGA. 49

Chief Executive Officer at TCI Hospital, Dr. Denise BraithwaiteTennant stated: "A heartfelt thanks to all of the private companies that have given so freely of their time and resources to encourage and recognize our team's hard work and dedication. Representatives of the various companies have toured the hospital to thank employees for their service personally, and this level of support is invaluable. While this has undoubtedly been a challenging period, we need to remain positive and live with gratitude even in the face of adversity. Thankfulness is contagious, and it is hoped "Thankful Thursday" reminds us all to take a deep breath, live with gratitude and focus on the positives and give encouragement to each other, patients, families, and friends."

MEMBERS OF THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH PRIMARY HEALTH CARE DEPARTMENT ALSO RECEIVED PASTRY PLATTERS 50

PICTORIAL HIGHLIGHTS

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PICTORIAL HIGHLIGHTS

52

PICTORIAL HIGHLIGHTS

53

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