March 29, 2007 — Governor John deJongh Jr. toured the Charles Harwood Medical Complex on Wednesday, where he met with acting Health Commissioner Dr. Phyllis L. Wallace in an effort to expedite the contract process to alleviate mold conditions in the building, according to a Government House release issued Thursday.
DeJongh addressed employees from the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Program, many of whom were involved in work actions since Monday to protest inadequate work space. DeJongh ensured them that all would be done to continue providing services to clients and provide employees with adequate workplace conditions.
"It is very important that all employees be afforded the best and safest work space to meet the needs of their clients. We appreciate their patience while we attempt to make the repairs that are necessary to address this longstanding problem. It is equally as important that the members of the community, who rely on this clinic for service, continue to be provided the health care that they need in the best and most appropriate conditions," deJongh said.
Employees from MCH, including doctors, nurses and clerks, were moved to the Community Health Clinic after mold was discovered in the MCH wing last September. At the time, Health officials also offered physical and allergy exams to staff who notified the department that they could be adversely affected. There are 231 employees housed at Charles Harwood Complex and eight non-government employees who use space in the building for perinatal care.
Also Wednesday, Health officials identified additional space at the Harwood Complex for MCH's pre-natal clinic. DeJongh toured the area, which MCH supervisor Julie Canegata agreed would alleviate complaints of cramped conditions by her staff.
As a result, all MCH employees except pre-natal staff are to return to work at the Community Health Clinic on Thursday. The pre-natal clinic will resume operation on Friday on the first floor. Parents are asked to enter the building via the east entrance near the Property and Procurement office in Estate Richmond. Parking will be made available.
Wallace released a report commissioned by the Health Department on air-quality testing in the building, which revealed concentrations of mold in the MCH as well as the dental clinic.
Wallace apologized to parents and their children for the inconvenience and said that appointments can be rescheduled by calling (340) 773-1311, ext. 3159 or ext. 3161.