Mold Forces Shutdown of Port Loyola Polyclinic

Patients who depend on the Port Loyola Polyclinic on Belize City’s southside are experiencing significant disruption after the facility was shut down last Thursday due to mold contamination. Minister of Health and Wellness Kevin Bernard confirmed the closure, saying that the decision was made to prioritise the safety of both patients and staff.

Bernard explained that the clinic’s environment, which is subject to high humidity and heat, contributed to the mold issue. “I mean, we live in an environment where there’s humidity and heat at the same time, so we have to look at all of these things. But so far right now, I understand that we’re temporarily going to move those patients out to other facilities while we look at a new facility that will be able to provide the service there.”

According to Bernard, alternative healthcare options are available. “While the facility will be out of service, the residents will still have access to other facilities within that area that can get the same service that they were getting at Port Loyola.”

He added that the ministry is exploring options, including renovating the existing facility, upgrading it, or constructing a new clinic to ensure long-term solutions for the Port Loyola area.

Regarding staff members, Bernard confirmed that their jobs are secure and that they are being reassigned to other healthcare centres in the interim, such as the Central Health Region, Cleopatra White Polyclinic, Mitchell Polyclinic, and others. “One thing, one assurance I want to make is that they are not to be worried, but they will have, and continue to do, their job. And we will, as soon as we can get, uh, a new facility for that area, then we will do so.”