BVIHSA addresses public concerns over staffing and medical supplies

The BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has reassured the public of its commitment to delivering quality healthcare following concerns about staffing shortages and medical supply availability at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital.

In a press release on Tuesday, March 11, the BVIHSA emphasised that efforts are underway to resolve the ongoing issue.

“Like many healthcare institutions worldwide, we continue to face staffing challenges,” the release stated. “To address this, we are actively recruiting clinicians and have initiated the process of engaging a consultant to review our compensation packages, ensuring we remain competitive.”

Regarding concerns over a shortage of medical supplies, the BVIHSA suggested that these reports might be due to the timing of restocking or delays in reporting low supplies.

“As part of our efforts to optimise supply management and reduce waste, a recent policy adjustment placed certain supplies under the oversight of the charge nurse on duty, ensuring they are distributed as needed and properly accounted for,” the authority explained. “In light of the concerns raised, we are now reviewing this process to ensure it remains both efficient and responsive to patient care needs.”