The Editor:
Re: 'Care will not be compromised' as major B.C. hospital plans for diversions for tech upgrade (Sept. 5, 2024)
Regarding the article about the weekend diversions at Royal Columbian Hospital (RCH), a quote claims there is no understaffing at the facility.
I beg to differ.
My wife was recently hospitalized for a month there and visits showed me a hard working staff with barely a moment to spare.
Even at that, I recall numerous times where call bells went unanswered for long times.
Maintenance seemed to be delayed. The patient bathroom was out of commission for several days, making those who were mobile go to another room (visitors had to make our way to the main floor to access a facility).
Two years ago, my daughter was in for emergency surgery and a fairly protracted recovery. She spent a good deal of time in a bed in the hall.
That is not a staffing issue, but it must have added to the expected workload.
There is a vast construction project, adding an entire new building to open in the near future.
I wonder about the staffing issue, when it is complete, what with doctors and nurses being lured out of the public system by monied interests.
But that, as they say, is another story.
- Paul Palmer, New Westminster
