Hospital notes hike in accidents, booze cases during Xmas

PORT Moresby General Hospital chief executive Dr Umesh Gupta has urged people to celebrate Christmas responsibly and stay out of trouble.
According to hospital records in past years, he said there was always a rise in road accidents and alcohol-related cases received at the hospital’s emergency department during the festive season.
“I cannot give the exact figure but the hospital sees an increase in patients from road accident and alcohol-related violence during the festive season,” he said.
“So I encourage everyone to drink responsibly, celebrate responsibly and drive responsibly during this time.”
Gupta said the emergency unit would be open 24/7 during the festive season.
“Don’t drink and drive, don’t drink and fight. Be responsible and celebrate responsibly,” he said.
“Our doctors are also rostered so there will be doctors at the emergency unit during Christmas and Boxing Day. Only the outpatients will be closed as is the practice during public holidays.”