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.
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
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.
The British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has made revisions to its COVID-19 testing protocols, effective immediately.
As part of these changes, individuals without COVID-19 symptoms will no longer be mandated to undergo pre-procedure testing before hospital or clinic admissions. This adjustment aims to enhance the efficiency of the healthcare journey for patients.
Under the updated protocols, symptomatic patients and those with recent exposure to confirmed COVID-19 cases will still undergo testing before procedures, surgeries, or admissions.
This shift in policy facilitates smoother access to healthcare services and maintains a vigilant stance against the ongoing threat of coronavirus transmission.
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