That water samples taken by the Inspectorate of Public Health, Social Development and Labour VSA at St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) tested negative for cross-contamination (see related story) is reassuring for patients, staff and the public in general. After a complaint regarding wastewater in the hospital’s sterilisation room tests were done from four tap-points there.
In addition, the adjoining room, surrounding areas as well as the sewage holding tank were checked. Inspectors learned that there had indeed been an incident, but short-term actions were taken, like the pumping of the wastewater tank twice a week with a septic truck and sealing the space around the drain pipe where the water was seeping into the sterilisation room.
Still, this is scary stuff. A hospital obviously depends on clean water and sterile environment, so it’s good to know that necessary measures were put in place to address the situation.
What’s more, all lines to the newly-installed wastewater treatment plant are scheduled to be connected this week, which should comprehensively resolve the problems. This was confirmed to Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor VSA Richinel Brug during his visit visit to SMMC (see related story) where he met with management.
However, parts of the hospital experienced flooding with heavy rainfall as well and that too must be tackled effectively, especially considering earlier drainage issues in the area. This goes not just for the current complex but also the adjacent new St. Maarten General Hospital (SMGH) under construction.
Forewarned is forearmed.
