FREEPORT, The Bahamas – Governor General Sir Arthur Foulkes on Friday challenged the medical and support staff and the Grand Bahama Health Services to continue set new standards in health care.

Accompanied by Lady Foulkes and Health Minister the Hon. Dr. Hubert A. Minnis, Their Excellencies was participating in the 13^th Annual Governor General’s Visit to the Rand Memorial Hospital.

He told health care providers that in the spirit of giving, they must remember the greatest gift of all and the reason for the season which is the good news of the birth of the Christ child.

“As this festive Christmas season reminds us that we were given the greatest gift of love, so let us also give love to each other. I urge you to serve those in your care with love and compassion,” Sir Arthur told the gathering.

He reminded them that their role as healthcare providers is such that they are unable to package their goodwill and exhibit it at specific times of the year, but rather, it is their calling to provide not only physical, but emotional care to those in need of their services throughout the years.

“This cannot and should not be seen as an obligation of one’s job, but a rewarding experience through which you are able to minister to the needs of others,” he said.

The Governor General also reminded the medical staff that “there are those you will come in contact with as you carry out your daily duties who are hurting, both physically and psychologically, and who are in their most vulnerable state.

“It is during these times that you are called upon to give more than medical care, but genuine kindness, understanding and a helping hand. What you do for them, you also do for the Master himself.

He then encouraged the staff at the Grand Bahama Health Services to continue to strive for excellence in service, and that while they have already set the bar high in excellence in healthcare; with perseverance, dedication and commitment, they will reach even higher levels of success.

Photo 1: Governor General Sir Arthur Foulkes warmly greets staff at the Rand Memorial Hospital in Freeport, Grand Bahama during the Governor General's annual visit December 16. (BIS Photo /SIMON LEWIS)

Photo 2: Governor General Sir Arthur Foulkes shares a happy moment with patients in the Male Ward of the Rand Memorial Hospital during his annual visit December 16. (BIS Photo /SIMON LEWIS)