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HSA offers new geriatric service for patients 60 and over
Older people living in the Cayman Islands will now be able to access specialised geriatric medical care through the Health Services Authority’s (HSA) Specialist Clinic located at the Smith Road Medical Centre.
Geriatric medical care involves the study, diagnosis and treatment of diseases or conditions associated with older adults, including multiple chronic conditions, functional decline, dementia and frailty.
The introduction of this service will provide high-quality, patient-centred care for persons 60 years of age and older, helping them to live comfortably and improve their life expectancy. Approximately 12 percent of the Cayman Islands population is 60 years and older according to the 2021 Population and Housing Census Report.
Medical Director Dr Delroy Jefferson noted that the expansion of the Specialist Clinic services to include geriatric is a result of the HSA actively addressing the medical and welfare needs of members of the community. “The Cayman Islands has a growing elderly population and as such, we must cater to these individuals requiring more attention by virtue of their age and conditions to which they are susceptible in order to ensure a better quality of life and care,” Dr Jefferson said.
This service will be delivered by the Authority’s first geriatrician, Dr Glaister Bell, who has indicated that he takes a holistic approach to the care of older adults, addressing more than the physical aspects of health.
“I get acquainted with other areas that impact their overall health such as specific and common disorders, the social areas that have direct or indirect impact on their wellbeing, the psychological components, the spiritual and more,” Dr Bell noted.
Dr Bell holds a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), a Doctor of Medicine (DM) in Family Medicine and has had subspecialty training in Geriatric Medicine, all from the University of the West Indies, Mona. He has years of experience working as a Medical Officer in emergency departments and as a General Practitioner in Jamaica, Anguilla, The British Virgin Islands and at the HSA.
Persons interested in booking an appointment with Dr Bell do not require a referral (unless required by their health insurers). To book an appointment call 949-8600.
