Two new ambulances have been added to the fleet operated by the BVI Health Services Authority, the agency announced Tuesday.
One of the vehicles was funded by the Ministry of Health and Social Development, and the other — which is designated for use on Virgin Gorda — was funded by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda.
“These newly acquired ambulances not only expand the existing fleet but also signify a significant leap forward in optimising the BVIHSA’s emergency response capabilities,” according to a Tuesday press release from the BVIHSA. “Equipped with cutting-edge technology and manned by highly skilled healthcare professionals, these ambulances stand ready to traverse the length and breadth of the territory at a moment’s notice, drastically reducing response times and maximising the chances of positive outcomes for patients.”
A handover ceremony featured remarks from acting BVIHSA CEO Dr. June Samuel and Health and Social Development Minister Vincent Wheatley.
“These ambulances will play a crucial role in improving our capacity to respond to emergencies swiftly and effectively, ultimately saving lives and ensuring the well-being of our community,” Mr. Wheatley said.
The minister — who represents the Ninth District, which includes Virgin Gorda — described the donation as a “shining example” of public-private collaboration.
Redundancy on VG
Dr. Samuel explained that one ambulance is already stationed at the Nurse Iris O’Neal Medical Centre on Virgin Gorda, but the new one will allow for redundancy in the island’s response system.
“Through ongoing collaboration with the [H. Lavity Stoutt Community College], a second cohort of EMT graduates is expected in June,” she said. “And once the budget allows, we will expand our crews to allow for a continued presence of EMTs in Virgin Gorda as well as integrated EMT staff [and] services in JVD and Anegada.
“In the meantime, we will continue to maintain two crews of EMT staff on Tortola, allowing for the ability to dispatch two ambulances.”