ST JAMES, Jamaica — The Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA) is appealing to families to promptly collect relatives who have been discharged from hospitals and other health facilities across western Jamaica as the island braces for Hurricane Melissa.

The regional body said the measure is aimed at ensuring the safety and comfort of patients who are stable and can be cared for at home, while allowing hospitals to focus resources on emergency and critical care cases during the storm.

Regional Director St Andrade Sinclair underscored the importance of swift community cooperation, noting that timely action would help maintain hospital readiness.

“We are urging family members to act quickly and responsibly by collecting loved ones who are medically fit for discharge,” Sinclair said. “This will help us ensure that our hospitals remain adequately equipped to manage any storm-related emergencies and maintain the highest standard of care for those who need it most.”

Families are being advised to contact their respective hospital wards or facility administrators for discharge guidance and collection times. The WRHA also reminded the public to stay updated on weather information and advisories from the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the Meteorological Service of Jamaica.

The authority said it continues to work closely with the Ministry of Health and Wellness and local disaster response agencies to ensure the safety of all patients and staff during the passage of the hurricane.