Business View Caribbean - Mar 2024

the immediate infrastructural developments. The mention of an expanded polyclinic signifies a leap towards more integrated and accessible healthcare services, offering urgent care, emergency services, and primary healthcare under one roof. BVIHSA’s strategy emphasizes primary healthcare as a pillar of overall health system efficiency and effectiveness. “An increased effort in the area of preventative health is crucial. We aim to empower our community to take proactive steps towards their health, thereby reducing the load on secondary services,”Dr. Samuel stresses.This proactive approach is further supported by ongoing community needs assessments, a strategic initiative aimed at tailoring healthcare services to the population’s evolving needs, particularly in the aftermath of significant events such as the hurricanes of 2017 and the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing the paramount issue of cancer care, Dr. Samuel reveals plans to forge collaborations that bolster the Authority’s capabilities in this critical area. “Building partnerships is essential for enhancing our cancer care services, aligning with our goal to tackle major health concerns head-on,” she explains. The strategic pivot towards subspecialty services targeting heart health, kidney diseases, and endocrine issues exemplifies a comprehensive response to the territory’s healthcare challenges. Reflecting on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and Hurricane Irma, Dr. Samuel highlights the importance of preparedness, resilience, and adaptability in healthcare planning. “Cross-training staff, supporting their mental health, and anticipating the impacts of climate change are integral to our strategy moving forward,” she concludes. These insights encapsulate a forward-thinking approach that aims to equip the BVI Health Services Authority with the tools and systems necessary to navigate future challenges, ensuring a robust, responsive, and resilient healthcare system for the community. COLLABORATIVE NETWORKS ENHANCING HEALTHCARE DELIVERY In the complex arena of healthcare provision, forging strategic partnerships is indispensable for amplifying impact and streamlining services. Dr. Samuel sheds 65 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 11, ISSUE 03 BVI HEALTH SERVICES AUTHORI TY