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‘They can treat us better’

From Jamaica Gleaner · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • The Montego Bay Cancer Support Group reports that cancer patients face dismissal and delays at Cornwall Regional Hospital.
  • Patients allegedly experience stigma, leading to poor treatment and long waits, even for life-threatening conditions.
  • The group calls for improved compassion and care from hospital staff.

The Montego Bay Cancer Support Group (MBCSG) is highlighting a disturbing pattern of inadequate care for cancer patients at Cornwall Regional Hospital (CRH). The advocacy group reports that patients are frequently dismissed, face significant delays, and receive subpar treatment due to the stigma associated with their illness.

According to the MBCSG, patients with life-threatening conditions have been turned away from emergency care or left waiting for hours, sometimes days. This neglect is compounded by dismissive attitudes from some medical staff, creating an environment where vulnerable patients feel unwelcome and uncared for. The group emphasizes that cancer patients deserve better compassion and timely medical attention.

The concerns raised by the MBCSG point to systemic issues within the hospital's handling of cancer patients. The stigma surrounding cancer appears to be influencing the quality of care provided, leading to potentially dangerous outcomes. The group is urging for immediate improvements in patient treatment and staff attitudes at CRH to ensure all patients receive the dignity and medical support they require.

They can treat us better.

— Montego Bay Cancer Support GroupExpressing the need for improved treatment and compassion for cancer patients at Cornwall Regional Hospital.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jamaica Gleaner. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.