Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley has praised the dedication and resilience of the Territory’s nurses, describing them as the “heartbeat of the healthcare system”.

Honourable Wheatley during a special ceremony hosted by the BVI Health Services Authority in recognition of Nurses Week 2025 acknowledged the dedication, resilience, and compassion demonstrated by nurses across all sectors, from hospitals and clinics to home care and assisted living facilities.

He said, “Nurses are the heartbeat of our healthcare system,” Honourable Wheatley stated. “Whether it is at the beginning of life, during critical moments of illness or at the end of life, nurses are there — offering skilled care, comfort, and hope. Behind every life saved, every family comforted, and every patient restored, there is a nurse whose work made the difference.”

The Minister for Health emphasised that nurses are not only essential to public health, but are also drivers of national development. He underscored the importance of investing in the nursing workforce as a means of strengthening the Territory’s economy and ensuring long-term health system sustainability.

Honourable Wheatley also shared updates on key health sector initiatives, including the near completion of the revised Alliance Agreement between the National Health Insurance (NHI) and the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA). The updated agreement will introduce new payment models, enhanced quality standards, and greater transparency — ultimately benefitting healthcare professionals and the people they serve.

Honourable Wheatley said, “Our words of appreciation must be matched by action. That is why I continue to advocate for better compensation, training opportunities, and the tools you need to work safely and effectively. You deserve not just gratitude, but investment.”

Nurses Week is an annual celebration held from 6^th to 12^th May 6 to recognise the invaluable contributions of nurses to health systems and communities around the world. The week culminates on 12^th May, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.

The week is dedicated to honouring nurses for their compassion, professionalism, and commitment to improving health outcomes. It also serves to raise awareness about the challenges nurses face and the essential role they play in delivering healthcare across all settings — from hospitals and clinics to homes and communities
            The Ministry of Health and Social Development remains committed to improving the health and social well-being of the people of the Virgin Islands.