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by pltm
Road Town, Tortola — The Government of the Virgin Islands, in partnership with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission and international humanitarian organization Direct Relief, has completed a series of health infrastructure upgrades to improve the Territory’s healthcare resilience and reliability.
(PLTM) - The initiative includes installation of a new oxygen generation and filling system at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, standby power systems at the Jost Van Dyke Clinic and the Romalia Smith Clinic on Anegada, and pharmacy-grade refrigeration upgrades along with a new generator at the Rosalind Penn Community Clinic. The enhancements are part of a wider regional effort to reinforce essential medical services and ensure consistent access to care, even during natural disasters or power disruptions. Minister for Health and Social Development Hon. Vincent Wheatley described the project as a vital investment in the Territory’s healthcare system, emphasizing its role in protecting both patients and staff.
“This initiative represents not just an investment in infrastructure, but an investment in our people,” Wheatley said. “It ensures that our hospitals and clinics can continue serving the public safely and effectively. Together, we are laying a foundation for a more reliable, sustainable, and responsive health system.”
Dr. Roxanne Brizan-St. Martin of the OECS Commission said the project addresses critical gaps identified within the Territory’s health system. She highlighted the importance of standby power, oxygen production, and cold-chain systems for ensuring uninterrupted care.
“These foundational investments are essential for ensuring continuity of care and life-saving service delivery,” Dr. Brizan-St. Martin said. “They ensure that healthcare remains accessible and reliable during difficult circumstances.”
Acting Chief Executive Officer of the BVI Health Services Authority, Dr. June Samuel, thanked the project partners and emphasized that sustainability remains central to healthcare delivery. “With these new systems, we can ensure continuity of care, protect our patients, and reduce dependency on external resources,” Dr. Samuel said. “This is a true step forward in healthcare transformation for the Virgin Islands.”
The OECS–Direct Relief Health Systems Strengthening Project is a regional initiative focused on creating climate-resilient health infrastructure throughout the Eastern Caribbean. The Virgin Islands’ implementation of the project demonstrates how regional cooperation and international support can help improve access to healthcare, reduce service disruptions, and enhance long-term system sustainability.
