The King Edward VII Memorial Hospital is making positive changes to increase patient satisfaction, according to the Minister of Health.

During the Budget debate this week on health, Walter Roban said an upgrade programme was initiated this year starting in the Perry Ward, which includes painting, new air conditioning and ceiling tiles, refurbished floors, upgraded bathroom facilities and new windows, which are currently on order.

Mr. Roban said: "Also to improve the patient experience on the wards, 66 new beds were installed this year at King Edward. The new Stryker Secure hospital beds use innovative technology designed to meet everyday requirements necessary for optimal patient care.

"The new beds are especially relevant for wound care patients because the hospital can position and move patients in ways that reduce the risk of skin damage.

"In addition, the mattress provides pressure relief for each part of the body and automatically adjusts to individual patient size and weight. The force exerted when turning a patient is reduced, and this means less risk of pressure ulcers for patients."

Paramedic training is being reviewed by the Massachusetts General Hospital to ensure that paramedics maintain their qualifications.

The hospital is also close to hiring a chief geriatrician to establish medical leadership for continuing care for outpatient services, Mr. Roban said.

He also spoke on nursing, saying: "An association with an overseas nursing education centre is being established to ensure that nurses trained in Bermuda reach the same high international standards. Students will have to pass an internationally-recognised registered nurse exam before being recognised as an RN."

Accreditation was also brought up as the Bermuda Hospitals Board achieved the highest category of accreditation with Accreditation Canada, a level achieved only by the top 20 percent of Canadian hospitals.

Mr. Roban said the standards at the hospital are updated every year because the bar is "always moving" internationally and the hospital is committed to "keeping pace".