Dr Penn Launches Free Pap Screenings
WINBVI Ambassador Dr Arliene T. Penn has launched the 2026 EMPOWER YOU! free Pap smear screening initiative to encourage women across the Virgin Islands to prioritise cervical cancer prevention. Registration runs January 15–31 and eligible women can call or WhatsApp 440-4122 to book free February appointments at participating clinics.
Penn, who holds the title Mrs British Virgin Islands 2022/2023, has announced the 2026 edition of her EMPOWER YOU! initiative — a free Pap smear screening programme aimed at encouraging proactive reproductive-health care across the Virgin Islands. This marks Dr Penn’s fifth year hosting the screening initiative and her sixth year publicly urging women to seek regular cervical screening. “My commitment to this work remains deep, because early detection continues to save lives,” she said in a press release, noting that the programme is guided by her personal journey and long-term advocacy for women’s health.
Free Pap smear screenings will be offered throughout February at the following participating clinics: BVI Health Services Authority The Wellness Centre Clinics B&F Medical Complex Eureka Medical Clinic Registration is open from January 15 to 31. Eligible women are asked to call or WhatsApp 440-4122 to register and select their preferred clinic.
Participating clinics will contact registrants to schedule appointments between February 1 and 28. All appointments include a free consultation. According to the organisers, there is no co-pay required under the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme for the screenings. The programme is aimed at sexually active women in the following groups: those aged 18–29 who have never had a Pap smear, and those aged 18–65 who have not had a Pap smear in the past three years.
Dr Penn emphasised that cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable, yet potentially life-threatening cancers affecting women worldwide. In alignment with World Health Organization guidance, she highlighted that education, routine screening and vaccination are the most effective tools for prevention and early detection.
For BVI residents, the EMPOWER YOU! initiative offers an accessible opportunity to take preventive action. Women with questions about eligibility, NHI coverage, or the screening procedure are encouraged to contact the registration number or speak with their chosen clinic when scheduling.
Early detection through regular screening can greatly improve outcomes, and organisers hope the free programme will increase participation across the territory.
Primary source: VINO