Ambulance on Virgin Gorda Fully Operational, Health Minister Confirms

In response to growing public concern over the status of emergency medical services on Virgin Gorda, the Minister for Health and Social Development and Ninth District Representative, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, issued a formal statement Friday confirming that the island’s ambulance is “fully operational” and currently in service.

“There was a brief period when the ambulance underwent routine servicing,” Minister Wheatley said. “During that time, contingency measures were implemented to ensure uninterrupted emergency response capabilities.”

Hon. Vincent Wheatley

Though he did not detail what those measures entailed, Minister Wheatley emphasized that emergency medical readiness was never compromised. He also extended thanks to the residents of Virgin Gorda for their patience during the temporary maintenance period.

The Minister’s statement follows a wave of concern across social media and in local circles about the island’s preparedness to handle medical emergencies, particularly in light of its geographic separation from the territory’s main hospital on Tortola.

“The safety and well-being of all residents remain our highest priority,” Wheatley stated. “We are committed to ensuring that Virgin Gorda, and all our Sister Islands, continue to receive the emergency medical services they rightfully deserve.”

Residents with questions regarding medical services have been encouraged to contact the Nurse Iris O’Neal Medical Centre on Virgin Gorda or the BVI Health Services Authority directly.

This update comes as the territory continues to assess and strengthen healthcare services across its Sister Islands, many of which rely on limited resources and face logistical challenges due to inter-island travel and infrastructure constraints.

Minister Wheatley concluded his statement by reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency and prompt communication when it comes to critical public services.