The BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) is reintroducing precautionary measures as a response to the current uptick in Covid-19 cases.
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the BVIHSA has introduced a number of protocols to address various pandemic-related scenarios. In consideration of the current spike in COVID positive cases, the management Team of the BVIHSA has decided to upgrade the organization’s safeguarding strategy.
It was decided that the first of a two-step approach will be focused on internal protection. As such, management decided that all BVIHSA staff providing inpatient care and patients will be tested periodically, to ensure the continued safety of staff and patients. These tests will be carried out by the Employee Health Unit.
In the event an employee tests positive for COVID-19, their supervisor will be notified and each case will be handled as per the Ministry of Health’s Covid protocols. Affected employees may be asked to remain home for a specified period.
In tandem with the tests, the BVIHSA will implement various safeguarding and social distance protocols to minimize COVID-19 exposure within the organization.
The second step is external in nature as the organization has reintroduced a restricted visitation policy. This second step is in keeping with the BVIHSA’s commitment to patient safety.
The new visitation policy has altered the hours of public access. As such, effective December 26, 2021 until further notice; visitation has been reduced to 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. and only one visitor is allowed at a time for a maximum of 30 minutes. However, please note that special considerations will be given for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, ICU, Pediatrics and patients with special circumstances.
The BVI Health Services Authority is also reminding the public that vaccination has proven to be the best protection against COVID-19 and is encouraging all to do their part to protect their loved ones by getting vaccinated.