East End Clinic still closed as chronic staff shortages persist

Minister of Health and Social Development Vincent Wheatley has confirmed that the East End clinic remains closed due to a shortage of adequate staffing.

During Tuesday’s sitting of the House of Assembly, Eighth District Representative Marlon Penn questioned Wheatley on why the Iris Penn Smith Clinic remains closed.

Wheatley attributed the closure primarily to a lack of human resources within the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA), though he also cited financial and physical constraints.

“The Iris Penn Smith Clinic has been closed since January 14, 2025, and remains closed to this day,” Wheatley stated. “The shortage of staff is further compounded by instances of illness or staff departures.”

He explained that between November and January, two nurses resigned, one relocated, and another was hospitalized for an extended period. While the hospitalized nurse has since returned, her capacity remains limited.