VG Clinic Faces Service Disruptions
The BVI Health Services Authority has temporarily adjusted services at the Nurse Iris O’Neal Medical Centre on Virgin Gorda due to infrastructural issues. Allied Health and Wound Care have been relocated to North Sound Clinic and a field hospital will be deployed to maintain urgent care while repairs are completed.
The British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has confirmed ongoing infrastructural issues at the Nurse Iris O’Neal Medical Centre on Virgin Gorda that are affecting normal operations. In a bulletin dated October 17, 2025, the authority said rehabilitation efforts are underway and that temporary measures have been put in place to maintain access to health care for residents.
As an immediate adjustment, Allied Health Services and Wound Care have been temporarily relocated to the North Sound Clinic. These services will be available by appointment only from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Patients may book appointments by calling (284) 440-1661 or (284) 852-7700.
To ensure urgent care remains available on Virgin Gorda while repairs continue, the BVIHSA will deploy a field hospital on the grounds of the Nurse Iris O’Neal Medical Centre. The field hospital is a temporary structure intended to support clinical operations and provide prompt assessment and treatment for non-life-threatening conditions.
Residents are reminded that Urgent Care provides immediate attention for illnesses and injuries that are not life-threatening but require treatment typically within 24 hours. Common examples include fevers, sprains, minor cuts, flu symptoms and infections. For major or life-threatening emergencies — such as chest pain, severe bleeding or difficulty breathing — residents should call the Ambulance Service immediately at (284) 340-2045.
The bulletin also notes that the BVIHSA medical team will provide rapid response, onsite assessment and stabilisation at the Nurse Iris O’Neal facility prior to transfer to the Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital on Tortola if further critical care is required. Residents who may need specialist or inpatient services should expect possible transfers to Tortola and plan accordingly for travel and accommodation if necessary.
BVIHSA thanked the Virgin Gorda community for its patience and understanding as repair work continues. Officials advise patients with ongoing care needs to secure adequate medication supplies, keep scheduled appointments, and contact the numbers provided for updates. The authority has reassured the public it is working to restore full services as quickly and safely as possible.
Primary source: VINO