Health
Virgin Islands Mourns Public Health Pioneer Dr. Carissa Etienne
The Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, expressed heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands following the passing of Dr. Carissa Etienne, Director Emeritus and former Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Honourable Wheatley, reflecting on Dr. Etienne’s profound contributions, stated, “Dr. Etienne has left an indelible mark in the area of global and regional public health. Her career is worthy of emulation.”
Acknowledging Dr. Etienne’s significant impact, particularly as the former Assistant Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Honourable Wheatley highlighted her pivotal role in shaping the public health landscape regionally and internationally. He emphasized the invaluable benefits derived by the Virgin Islands, stating, “We here in the VI also benefited tremendously from her vision, leadership, and drive to advance public health in the Americas.”
Dr. Etienne’s remarkable accomplishments included her dedication to advancing Universal Health to provide equity for vulnerable, rural, and underserved populations. She tirelessly worked towards improving governance and stewardship in health, financing for health, and intersectoral action to address the social determinants of health. Dr. Etienne led PAHO’s initiatives to eliminate diseases such as HIV, malaria, trachoma, lymphatic filariasis, Chagas, and others. Her efforts also extended to mobilizing programs aimed at preventing and controlling non-communicable diseases.
In a poignant tribute, Honourable Wheatley remarked, “We have lost a visionary, pioneer, and stalwart in the area of public health. As we reflect on her significant contributions and her life’s work, we will be forever grateful and appreciative for the commitment, love, and respect that she had for her Caribbean counterparts. May her Soul Rest in Peace.”
A press release issued by PAHO confirmed the unfortunate passing of Dr. Etienne early this morning at her residence in Maryland, USA. The release provided insights into her illustrious career, commencing as a medical officer in her native Dominica at the Princess Margaret Hospital. Dr. Etienne later ascended to the position of Chief Medical Officer and held various high-level posts in Dominica, including Director of Primary Health Care Services, Coordinator of the National AIDS Program, and Disaster Coordinator for the Ministry of Health.
Dr. Etienne’s academic journey included obtaining her medical degree (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery-MBBS) from the University of the West Indies, Jamaica. She further pursued her Master of Science Degree (MSc) in Community Health in Developing Countries from the prestigious London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London.
Amidst mounting concerns over the malfunctioning air conditioning system at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has announced the arrival of an expert technician from Johnson Corporation, who is now on-site at the hospital, working to rectify the air conditioning problem.
“We’re pleased to announce that the expert technician from Johnson Corporation is now on-site at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, working diligently to resolve the air conditioning issue. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue to work to ensure a comfortable environment for all our patients and staff,” the post read.
The hospital has been grappling with the air conditioning malfunction for some time, causing discomfort for both patients and staff amidst soaring temperatures. J.M. Samuel MBBS, DM, Acting Interim Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the challenges posed by the ongoing issue in a press release last week, and assured the community of the hospital’s commitment to addressing the technical complexities.
“Our top priority is to ensure the well-being of everyone involved while we work diligently to address the technical complexities at hand,” stated J.M. Samuel.
In response to the crisis, emergency surgeries have been redirected to Bougainvillea Clinic to minimize disruptions, with staff advised to adhere to reduced working hours and utilize established cooling stations for relief.
“We are actively engaging resources to manage this crisis effectively,” added J.M. Samuel. “Flexibility in our work arrangements and the provision of cooling stations are vital steps towards maintaining a comfortable environment amidst these challenging circumstances.”
Efforts to rectify the situation have been underway, with technicians from the system manufacturer engaged to oversee necessary installations and software updates.
Despite the temporary suspension of elective surgeries, the BVIHSA remains resolute in its commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare services to all residents of the British Virgin Islands.
Health
AC Challenges Lead to Temporary Suspension of Elective Surgeries at Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital
The BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has temporarily suspended all elective surgeries at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, with only emergency procedures being accommodated due to concerns regarding the air conditioning (AC) system.
The hospital is currently grappling with a temperature control issue stemming from a software malfunction in the AC chilling unit, causing erratic cooling cycles. The BVIHSA has reassured the community of its efforts to address this technical challenge and requests patience during the resolution process.
Efforts are underway to rectify the situation, with the engagement of the system manufacturer and the procurement of necessary parts and software. Upon their arrival in the territory, a technician from the manufacturer will oversee the installation process.
As a consequence of these AC-related complications, adjustments to hospital services are inevitable to ensure the comfort and well-being of patients, visitors, and staff. Additionally, modifications to pharmacy outpatient services have been implemented, requiring medication orders to be submitted via WhatsApp or refill requests via phone for next-day pick-up between specified hours.
The BVIHSA extends its apologies for any inconvenience caused by these service alterations and assures the public of its commitment to swiftly resolve the issue. Despite these challenges, the authority remains dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare services to all residents of the British Virgin Islands, expressing gratitude for the community’s understanding and cooperation during this period of adjustment.
Health
Environmental Health Issues Recall of Fratelli Beretta Ready-to-Eat Charcuterie Meat Products
The Environmental Health Division has alerted the public to a recall of Fratelli Beretta Ready-to-Eat Charcuterie Meat Products due to potential under processing.
Specifically, the Ready-to-Eat Coppa products, with varying best by dates, are subject to recall if they bear the establishment number “EST. M47967 or M7543B” inside the USDA mark of inspection or in inkjet print on the front of the package.
Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc. initiated the recall due to concerns of under-processing in products containing Coppa (dry cured pork), which could lead to potential contamination with foodborne pathogens.
These products have been distributed to distributors and retailers globally, including the Virgin Islands. The Environmental Health Division is actively working with retailers to remove the affected products from shelves. However, some items may have already been sold to consumers.
The Ministry advises individuals in possession of the recalled products to cease usage immediately and return them to the place of purchase.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development, Environmental Health Division, pledges to monitor the situation closely and provide further guidance to the public as necessary. For additional information, individuals can contact the division at 468-5110.
Virgin Islands Set for Crown Land Management Overhaul with New Legislation
Stabbing Incident Leaves Inmate Injured at His Majesty’s Prison
Virgin Islands Responds to Flash Flood Emergency: Governor Pruce Leads Recovery Efforts
-
Uncategorized2 weeks agoMultiple Airports Targeted in Bomb Threats: RVIPF Investigates Coordinated Attacks
-
Local News1 week agoHeavy Rain Triggers Flash Flood Warning in British Virgin Islands
-
Uncategorized2 weeks agoCiboney School of Excellence is the Primary School Foreign Language Bowl Champions
-
Local News1 week agoHeavy Rains Damage Retaining Wall at Joe’s Hill Manor Estate
-
Uncategorized1 week agoNew Immigration Bill Aims to Clarify Residence and Belonger Status in the Virgin Islands
-
Uncategorized2 weeks agoRecords Management Centre Showcases Vital Role in Preserving History
-
Uncategorized1 week agoElmore Stoutt High School Set to Resume In-Person Classes Tomorrow
-
Uncategorized1 week agoVirgin Islands Responds to Flash Flood Emergency: Governor Pruce Leads Recovery Efforts