News
Surprise Raid: Specialists Shortage & 2 Nurses for 50 Patients Sparks Urgent Action
Mauritius’ New Cancer Hospital is facing a critical shortage of oncology specialists and frontline nursing staff, Health Minister Anil Bachoo revealed on Thursday, 8 January, following an unannounced inspection.
During his surprise visit to the Solférino facility in Vacoas on Thursday morning, 8 January, Minister Bachoo identified “several dysfunctions” that are currently hampering service delivery.
The most pressing concern involves a depleted workforce; the Minister noted that a significant number of doctors and oncology specialists have recently resigned from the public sector.
Critical Understaffing and Supply Shortages
The nursing department is under particular strain. Current figures show the hospital is operating with a severe ratio of just two Nursing Officers to care for approximately 50 patients.
Beyond human resources, the inspection uncovered:
- Medical Supplies: Intermittent stockouts of essential medications.
- Infrastructure: A complete lack of dedicated parking facilities for the site.
Government Response
Minister Bachoo has moved to reassure the public, stating that recruitment is already “underway” to bolster the medical and nursing teams. He further pledged that the medication shortages and infrastructure failings would be corrected “rapidly.”
“Several dysfunctions have been noted… the recruitment process is ongoing to strengthen the teams.” — Health Minister Anil Bachoo
The Minister’s full address to the press, detailing the roadmap for these improvements, has been released via official video channels.
Source: Defi Media
