The Tribune

The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) has provided the Rand Memorial Hospital with mobile devices so patients can talk to their relatives during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Visitors are not allowed in the hospital due to the pandemic. Garfield "Garry" Sinclair, BTC's chief executive, said: "At BTC, we believe that heart is more than something you have; it's something you share. We understand the need for people to be connected now more than ever and, more importantly, for persons who have relatives and loved ones who they cannot visit in hospitals and nursing homes.

"The decision to provide the mobile devices to the Rand Memorial Hospital was a 'no brainer'. We trust that families and friends will be able to connect with their loved ones frequently while they are in hospital to give them some comfort."

BTC donated eight mobile devices with SIM cards and phone credit. A similar donation was made to the Ministry of Health a few weeks ago to assist the COVID-19 task force.

Sandra Mortimer-Russell, deputy administrator for the Rand Memorial Hospital, said: "Regrettably, during this unprecedented pandemic, it is mandatory that visitor restrictions are fully enforced. Reaching out to people and loved ones is one of the best ways to reduce anxiety, depression, loneliness and boredom, particularly during hospitalisation.

"The executive management team, staff and, most importantly, our patients, are most appreciative of this kind gesture and partnership with BTC." BTC has also assisted the Ministry of Health by providing the 311 toll-free hotline enabling residents to contact their team directly.