HSA offers new geriatric service

The Health Services Authority has introduced specialised geriatric medical care for patients aged 60 and over at its Specialist Clinic at the Smith Road Medical Centre.

The HSA, in a press release announcing the new service, noted that 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.

It said the service will provide high-quality, patient-centred care to help older residents “live comfortably and improve their life expectancy”.

It noted that, according to the 2021 census, about 12% of the Cayman Islands population is 60 years and older.

Medical Director Dr. Delroy Jefferson, stated in the release, that Cayman 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”.

The new service will be delivered by the HSA’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, the release noted.

“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,” Bell said.

According to the release, Bell holds a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, a Doctor of Medicine in family medicine, and has had sub-specialty training in geriatric medicine, all from the University of the West Indies, Mona. He has worked a medical officer in emergency departments and as a general practitioner in Jamaica, Anguilla, The British Virgin Islands and at the HSA.

Anyone interested in booking an appointment with Bell do not require a referral, unless required by their health insurers, the release noted. To book an appointment, call 949-8600.