26/10/2025
Public Notice:
WRHA Urges Families to Pick Up Discharged Relatives Ahead of Storm Melissa
Montego Bay, Jamaica. Sunday, October 26, 2025 — As Tropical Storm Melissa approaches Jamaica, the Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA) is advising families to make immediate arrangements to collect relatives who are able to safely return home from hospitals and other health facilities across the region.
This proactive measure is being taken to ensure the safety and comfort of patients who are stable and can be appropriately cared for at home, while also allowing health facilities to prioritize emergency cases and those requiring critical care during the passage of the storm.
Regional Director, St. Andrade Sinclair, emphasized the importance of community cooperation at this time.
“We are urging family members to act quickly and responsibly by collecting loved ones who are medically fit for discharge. This will help us ensure that our hospitals remain adequately equipped to manage any storm-related emergencies and maintain the highest standard of care for those who need it most,” the Director said.
Families are asked to contact the respective hospital wards or facility administrators for guidance on discharge procedures and collection times. The WRHA is also reminding the public to monitor official weather updates and follow all advisories issued by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the Meteorological Service of Jamaica.
The Authority continues to work closely with the Ministry of Health & Wellness and local disaster response agencies to ensure continuity of care and the safety of all patients and staff.