19/09/2024
OFFICIAL STATEMENT
ON RECENT EVENTS AT ALBOR DISTRICT HOSPTAL
We hope this message finds you well. We are posting to address and clarify recent misinformation and misunderstandings regarding events that have unfolded at Albor District Hospital (ADH), as well as the responses of our staff.
At Albor District Hospital, our core mission is centered on delivering exceptional and equitable care to every patient who walks through our doors, irrespective of their economic status, social background, gender identity, political beliefs, or religious affiliations. We take great pride in being a diverse and inclusive institution that employs professionals from a variety of backgrounds, including individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community and people with disabilities. We embrace this diversity without bias or prejudice, strongly adhering to our guiding principles of compassion, integrity, empathy, confidentiality, and an unwavering respect for each patient’s autonomy.
While we remain committed to providing top-quality care, we acknowledge the realities of our operational environment, which may sometimes present us with challenges, including limitations in facilities, medical supplies, and staffing levels. However, we want to emphasize that our commitment to the integrity and wellbeing of our employees and our patients remains steadfast, even in the face of this constraints.
1. Addressing the incident on September 16, 2024
We wish to provide clarification regarding the specific incident involving the significant other (S.O.) of a particular patient and our security personnel on September 16, 2024. It has come to our attention that misunderstandings have arisen, and we feel it is essential to reiterate our hospital policies that guide our operations:
I – Visiting Hours: Our designated visiting hours are from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM daily. This policy is designed to minimize disruptions during physician’s rounds and to allow our healthcare staff to provide uninterrupted care. Additionally, it ensures that patients have adequate time to rest and recover in privacy.
II – Visitor Policy: Generally, only one significant other (S.O.) is permitted per patient. Exceptions may be made for pediatric, geriatric, individuals with disabilities, or patients with additional needs, where up to two watchers may be approved by the attending physician. This policy is essential for mitigating the risk of cross-contamination and infection, particularly in wards containing patients with vulnerable health conditions.
In response to the aforementioned incident, a thorough investigation was conducted, which included a review of CCTV footage and discussions with all individuals involved. Our findings indicate that the situation arose from a misunderstanding, intensified by heightened emotions surrounding the circumstances.
We firmly stand and support our security personnel as he is only following and implementing our guidelines and protocols as mentioned above.
2. Laboratory Services Clarification
We would also like to address concerns related to our laboratory services. As mandated by the Department of Health, ADH is authorized to perform a limited range of basic laboratory tests. These tests include Complete Blood Count, Urinalysis, Fecalysis, Pregnancy Test, Dengue Tests (including NS1, IgG, and IgM) and routine blood screenings (such as HBsAg, Syphilis, and HIV) while we wait for our License to Operate (LTO). Presently, our laboratory services cater primarily to in-patients, Emergency Room patients, and those under observation (OBS). Patients requiring tests that are not offered at ADH are advised to seek services from external laboratories.
It is important to clarify that we categorically reject any rumors indicating that we refuse to accept and interpret laboratory results from external sources for both in-patients and outpatients (OPD). For our outpatients or walk-in patients, please note that we have a daily capacity limit of 30-40 patients, and services are available from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
We encourage anyone who has encountered issues with our services or has any inquiries to visit our management or administration office to discuss their concerns directly. We urge everyone to refrain from spreading unverified information or making false accusations online, as this can lead to unnecessary drama and exacerbate the situation. Should any errors come to light, please rest assured that appropriate disciplinary actions will be implemented.
Final Remarks
Finally, we want to emphasize that Albor District Hospital will not tolerate false accusations, misinformation, threats, or any attempts to damage our reputation through political smear campaigns. We are prepared to gather evidence and witness accounts to address any such issues through legal channels, as necessary.
We remain committed to continuously enhancing our services and consistently act in the best interest of our patients. Your understanding and support during this time are greatly appreciated.
Best regards,
Albor District Hospital
