BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — Prime Minister David Thompson has confirmed that he is in the United States for a “medical procedure” but shied away from questions as to whether or not he is healthy enough to lead a government in Barbados.

Speaking in a telephone link-up with local radio and television reporters, Thompson, 48, said that his personal medical physician, Dr Richard Ishmael, will inform Barbadians about the state of his health next week.

“I want to let Barbadians know that during the two months I was away I kept abreast of what was happening and I am most grateful and heartened by the outpouring of love and support for me and the good wishes and prayers.

“It has been a tough time unfortunately…and being away from Barbados is something for me is obviously unfortunate, but I believe that the time has to be taken,” he said.

Thompson, who had been out of office for two months, returned to Barbados on August 29, and a statement issued then from his office residence, said that he was back at the head of government. The statement quoted him as saying that he was feeling fine and eager to get back to work.

But the Prime Minister said that by Saturday he had developed “a complication which required me to travel back to New York”.

“I think Barbadians would remember that I did indicate that the nature of my sickness would require me to travel to see the doctors here from time to time, but I don’t expect to be here long on this occasion all things being equal. But it was necessary for me to come back.”

He told the interviewers that he had also authorised Dr Ishmael, who has accompanied him to New York, “on his own independent position to give a medical update to Barbadians so you could have a very clear picture as to what is happening”.

Thompson said that while he is not reluctant to state his medical problem he would rather allow the population to hear from the medical experts.

“I am not a medical expert, I have an idea as to what’s wrong with me but I …think it is better for him to speak first and for me to come later.”