June 3, 2005 — The Maternal Child Health Clinic is temporarily closed due to budgetary constraints, according to officials at the V.I. Health Department.
"The money is there, it’s just waiting to be processed," said Risk Communication Coordinator Eunice Bedminster.
The clinic is supported by federal funds, so patients are seen at a nominal cost, depending on parental income. MCHC offers children specialized medical care in cardiology, pulmonology, neurology, hematology and orthopedics.
"We’re trying as hard as possible to get the doctors back on island as soon as possible," Bedminster said, adding that she expects the clinic to reopen in July or sooner.
In the meantime, Bedminster said that children who normally attend the pediatric clinic are being monitored by doctors and nurses, noting that those who need immediate care are being referred to specialists in the community or sent to Puerto Rico. According to Bedminster, patients’ needs are being reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
"Everyone is making sure these kids have the care that they need," Bedminster said. "People are handling it well; they are making provisions."
To reschedule appointments, call 777-8804 in the St. Thomas-St. John district or contact the V.I. Health Department at 773-1311, ext. 3222.
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