McCords celebrates end of tumultuous year
Staff at McCords Hospital have finally reason to celebrate.
THE tide has finally turned for McCord Hospital after a tumultuous year which saw the hospital threatened with closure amidst staff protests and media attention.
The embattled hospital enjoyed a year end function on Friday, 29 November which was a combination of the staff Christmas lunch, staff long service awards and the presentation of the Allan Taylor award to the top medical student for 2012.
Medical Manager, Dr Jay Mannie told Berea Mail it was so good to meet in the same area for a joyous occasion. “We met right here under different circumstances so it is wonderful to finally meet here under happy circumstances to celebrate with staff,” he said.
Mannie said the Allan Taylor Award for 2012 was presented to Dr Sharvay Bagratee for being the top student in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Nelson Mandela School of Medicine. “The presentation was delayed due to the challenges we faced,” he added.
The Glenmore doctor, who is currently an intern at King Edward Hospital said, “It’s a great feeling to be recognised. I wasn’t expecting it, being in a class of 220 students but just wanted to work hard in my final year and do my best.”
Bagratee also received the prize for general surgery. The local doctor who is a former Eden College pupil plans to specialise in Obstetrics and Gynaecology after completing his community service next year.
Dr Maureen Joshua, who is assisting the hospital ahead of the planned Department of Health take over at the end of January 2014 said, “Things are going well at the hospital. “Staff show such a willingness to work and their strong Christian ethos is very encouraging,” she said..
Many long serving members of staff were greeted with shouts of praise and rounds of applause from their peers as their went up to collect long service certificates for service of 10, 15, 25 , 30 and 40 years.
