The first Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) was inserted at the Peebles Hospital as the BVI Health Service Authority continues to expand its services.

An ICD is a battery-powered device that is placed under the skin that keeps track of a patient’s heart rate. Two thin wires connect the device to one or more of the chambers of the heart.

Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Dr. Rodger Miller said, “The device allows not only pacing but also cardioversion and defibrillation, which means that it is able to shock a patient and get their heart back into a regular rhythm if abnormality is detected.”

The first ICD was implanted on April 18.  “We are pleased that we can continue to expand our range of services as we continue on our mission of delivering optimum care to the people of the Territory,” Dr. Miller said.

Dr. Miller further added that Pacemaker and Cardiothoracic clinics offered at the BVI Health Services Authority are providing these services. “At the pacemaker clinic, devices are checked and re-programmed if necessary.  Patients with surgical cardiac or thoracic problems can be evaluated and followed up with at the Cardiothoracic Clinic. Both clinics are held on the second Thursday of every month.”

Persons interested in attending any of the clinics can contact the Out Patient Clinic at 852-7554 to schedule an appointment. The next clinic for pacemaker and cardiothoracic services will be held on June 13.

BVI Health Services Authority is committed to delivering excellent, compassionate, client-centered healthcare across the Territory.