The BVI Health Services Authority has received a donation of Blood Bank equipment courtesy of the Rotary Club of Tortola.

The official handover ceremony for the equipment was held last week Thursday at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital.

Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley said the partnership with the Rotary Club of Tortola resulted in the introduction of cutting-edge technology to properly outfit the blood bank at the hospital.

As a result, persons can now donate blood and staff at the hospital can conduct the necessary test on the blood for it to be properly delivered to patients. In addition, the new equipment also means the blood can be properly stored at the hospital.

Honourable Wheatley said a functioning blood bank is necessary to delivering key healthcare in the Territory.

"To have a functioning blood bank that is very efficient is very important. Could you imagine having to do an operation and in the middle of an operation you need blood and there is no blood? So, the equipment, I am sure makes the process more efficient and makes the blood more readily available. So, on behalf of the Ministry, we want to thank you for your very kind donation," the Minister said.

Honourable Wheatley expressed gratitude to the nurses and doctors at the hospital and clinics across the Virgin Islands for their services towards the advancement of healthcare in the Territory.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is committed to improving the health and well-being of the people of the Virgin Islands.