Low turnout at public consultations on BVI healthcare reform

Public consultation meetings hosted by the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) in collaboration with global auditing firm KPMG have seen low community participation, with roughly a dozen attendees at sessions held in West End and East End, Tortola.

The meetings, held on Tuesday, February 18, and Wednesday, aimed to gather public feedback on healthcare services as part of efforts to develop a strategic plan for the territory’s healthcare system.

According to the BVIHSA, KPMG was engaged to guide the future of healthcare in the BVI, and public input is crucial to shaping the plan. Despite the low turnout, senior consultants from KPMG assured that additional public consultations will be held over their five-month contract with the government.

They also noted that many of the healthcare challenges faced in the BVI mirror those of other Caribbean nations.

During the meetings, attendees suggested electronic surveys and clinic visits as alternative ways to increase public participation.

Minister for Health and Social Development Vincent Wheatley recently announced the initiative in the House of Assembly, stating that the government is prioritising improvements in healthcare infrastructure, financial management, and staffing.

The strategic plan will focus on financial sustainability, service delivery, workforce development, disaster preparedness, and digital transformation. Measures will be taken to establish a robust financial framework, explore public-private partnerships, and identify revenue diversification strategies.

Enhancements in patient care and workforce development will also be prioritised, along with the integration of digital health solutions and innovative care models. Additionally, the plan will strengthen healthcare infrastructure, technology, and emergency response capabilities.

With additional consultations planned, authorities continue to encourage public participation to help shape the future of healthcare in the BVI.