VIAA raises alarm over dementia and elder financial abuse

The Virgin Islands Alzheimer’s Association (VIAA) is stepping up its public education campaign on dementia and financial abuse among older adults and people living with dementia. As part of its ongoing outreach efforts, approximately 35 public officers recently participated in an interactive awareness session focused on the 10 Warning Signs of Dementia and ways to … Continued

Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic temporarily adjusts services due to building issue

The Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic is temporarily adjusting its services following a minor building issue that has affected air quality inside the facility. According to a statement from BVI Health Services Authority, a maintenance team is addressing the issue at the Virgin Gorda facility, while a scheduled deep cleaning will also be conducted to ensure … Continued

VIAA observes World Alzheimer’s Month; public encouraged to increase knowledge

September is being observed as World Alzheimer’s Month. The Virgin Islands Alzheimer’s Association VIAA is encouraging the community to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias and to recognise the importance of knowing the early warning signs. VIAA says this year’s theme, “The Earlier You Know, the More You Can Do,” underscores the importance … Continued

BVIHSA names Gordon Frame as new Chief Executive Officer

The British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has appointed Gordon Frame as its new Chief Executive Officer, ending a lengthy search for a permanent head of the Territory’s public healthcare system. Frame officially assumed the position on Tuesday, September 1, following a recruitment process that attracted 104 applicants and was narrowed to a shortlist … Continued

UPDATE: BVIHSA restores Emergency Medical Services following temporary disruption

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are now available following a temporary disruption caused by staffing shortages and staff illnesses. The BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) announced Tuesday that EMS coverage has been restored, with the Road Town Fire Department providing temporary assistance in responding to emergency calls. As part of the interim arrangement, evening and night … Continued

BVIHSA temporarily suspends EMS coverage amid staffing shortage

The BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has temporarily suspended Emergency Medical Services (EMS) coverage from the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, citing a staffing shortage worsened by employee illnesses. The Authority announced the disruption to the public as it works to address the staffing situation and restore EMS operations. BVIHSA said it is currently coordinating … Continued

Four new HIV cases recorded in BVI so far this year

Four new cases of HIV have been identified in the British Virgin Islands so far this year, prompting renewed calls for safer sexual practices, testing and personal responsibility. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ronald Georges made the disclosure in a statement on Thursday, August 20, following the Ministry of Health and Social Development’s recent “Wrap It … Continued

VIAA continues community awareness campaign

The Virgin Islands Alzheimer’s Association (VIAA) continues its community awareness campaign with a hybrid presentation to members of the Lions Club of Tortola focused on the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The presentation, which took place earlier this week, provided Lions Club of Tortola members with valuable information about … Continued

VIAA collaborates with Caricad on Hurricane Guide

Caregivers supporting persons living with Alzheimer’s or Dementia now have practical guidance during and after a hurricane or other emergency. The Virgin Islands Alzheimer’s Association has collaborated with the Caribbean Centre for Development Administration through the publication of a featured article in the Horizon SpecialHurricane Edition Newsletter. The article, “Supporting Loved Ones Living with Dementia … Continued

Ministry Launches “Wrap It Up” Campaign to Promote Safe Festival Practices

The Ministry of Health and Social Development continues to advocate for safe festival practices with the launch of its annual Wrap it Up Campaign. Running from July 13 to August 7, the Ministry’s “Wrap It Up Before You Wuk It Up” Campaign combines health education with culturally relevant messaging to promote safer sexual practices, responsible … Continued