How does the BVI’s ambulance services measure up?

Ambulance response times in the BVI came under scrutiny during a recent House of Assembly sitting when Sixth District Representative Myron Walwyn raised concerns over the issue.

Walwyn questioned the ability of the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) to meet emergency needs, given the age and condition of some of its ambulances.

Health Minister Vincent Wheatley revealed that the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) reported an average ambulance response time of approximately 8 minutes over the past year. Despite this relatively prompt response, the minister admitted there were deviations from this average, prompting a thorough review.

The investigation into delayed responses highlighted shortages of vehicles. These shortages, he explained, stemmed from a combination of factors including staffing limitations and an aging ambulance fleet nearing the end of its lifespan.

To address these challenges, Wheatley outlined several initiatives undertaken by the BVIHSA. Five new staff members were recently hired to ensure sufficient crew availability, and a training programme is underway to further bolster human resources. Additionally, a fleet replacement programme is in motion, with a new ambulance acquired and another generously donated by the Yacht Club Costa Esmeralda for use in Virgin Gorda.

Despite these efforts, Walwyn expressed concern upon reviewing the details of the current ambulance fleet. He highlighted several ambulances exceeding their recommended lifespan of five to 10 years, with one ambulance even reaching 12 years old. He suggested that this raised questions about the reliability of the existing fleet and its ability to handle emergencies effectively.

While acknowledging the need for more resources, Wheatley emphasised the ongoing efforts to improve the situation. He pointed to the recently acquired ambulances and the ongoing staff training programme, aiming to bridge the gap between acquiring new vehicles and ensuring the availability of trained personnel to operate them.

“You could have a new ambulance and no driver,” Wheatley explained. “So they must work in tandem. So we currently have persons training. We finished the first cohort of six months. They’re gonna go on to do the advanced training. Hopefully by the time they are finished, maybe we have two more ambulances.”