Administrators at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) are working to significantly increase the hospital’s linen stock to ensure consistent and reliable patient care.

Medical Director Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis says the current supply approximately four sheets per bed, leaves little margin for unexpected demand or routine wear and tear.

With 185 beds at full capacity, that equates to about 710 sheets, a number officials say is technically adequate but not ideal for a modern healthcare facility.

“Our aim is to go to six sheets per bed,” Dr. Belle-Jarvis stated, noting that a larger surplus reduces the risk of sanitation challenges and delays in patient turnover. At minimum, between 1,100 and 1,200 sheets are required to maintain safe operations.

Within the past week, the hospital received 300 additional sheets through support from the Medical Benefits Scheme, bringing the total inventory to about 1,000. An additional 500 sheets have already been ordered, which would raise the stock to approximately 1,500.

“That keeps us in a much safer place,” she said. “Because in the hospital, you really should never be short on sheets.”

Dr. Belle-Jarvis also revealed that the hospital’s capital assets are valued at approximately $27 million. While roughly $2 million in new equipment has been purchased, she acknowledged that infrastructural and equipment challenges remain.

“It cannot be done by the government alone,” she said. “It must also include investment by private partners and civil society, and we’re so thankful for our partners to date.”

Hospital officials say the push to strengthen supply management is part of broader efforts to improve operational resilience and patient care at Antigua and Barbuda’s primary public hospital.