Opposition Spokesman on Health Dr Fenton Ferguson said the current shortage of blood collection equipment at the National Blood Transfusion Center is another clear indication that the health sector is in crisis.

According to Dr Ferguson, the current crisis is due mainly in part to the lack of funds in the health ministry.

Yesterday The Gleaner broke the story about the major shortage in supplies and equipment at the Blood Bank.

The situation has also affected the agency’s ability to conduct blood collection drives in various parts of the island.

The health minister, Ruddy Spencer has since indicated that a shipment of the supplies is expected in the island by the end of the month.

However the opposition spokesman on health fears that the scarcity of the reagents needed to test the blood collected as well as the shortage in storage equipment will affect hospitals’ ability to respond effectively to the country’s medical needs.

Dr Ferguson is also recommending that the government review its health policy

He said the Cabinet must now meet to discuss what measures may be put in place to clear the health ministry’s debt.

Dr Ferguson is scheduled to meet with the health minister tomorrow to discuss these and other issues affecting the health sector.