The Government of the Virgin Islands says it will be expanding efforts to attract young people to the profession of nursing. Photo: Noozhawk.com

Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Carvin Malone (AL), right, during his message in observance of Nurses Week 2019 on May 6, 2019 said Government is committed to supporting nurses, and providing the resources they need to deliver professional, compassionate, high-quality health services to meet the needs of residents on each island. Photo: GIS/File

This was mentioned by Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Carvin Malone (AL) during his message in observance of Nurses Week 2019 on May 6, 2019.

Nurses Week is being observed from May 6-12, 2019 under the theme “Nurses: A Voice to Lead - Health for All”.

According to Honourable Malone, Government is committed to supporting nurses, and providing the resources they need to deliver professional, compassionate, high-quality health services to meet the needs of residents on each island.

“This includes creating opportunities for nursing education and continuous professional development, expanding efforts to attract young people to the profession, and enhancing the appeal of the Virgin Islands as we compete with other jurisdictions for highly skilled healthcare professionals.”

Invaluable efforts

Malone noted that nurses play a vital role in the territory’s healthcare system and contribute significantly to the quality of life enjoyed in the Virgin Islands.  “Each year we recognize their expertise and dedication to improving the health of the population by joining the celebration of International Nurses Week.”

He added this year’s theme - “Nurses: A Voice to Lead - Health for All” speaks to the shared commitment to ensuring that everyone is able to enjoy living conditions conducive to good health, and have full access to quality health care when they need it.

The Health Minister said as the Virgin Islands work together to protect and improve the health of all the people of the territory, nurses are often the most passionate advocates of health promotion and disease prevention.

“Being the first point of contact for many people in community settings, hospitals and specialised healthcare facilities their voices are also pivotal in promoting effective, sustainable and culturally appropriate care. Nurses also play a leading role in healthcare administration and the formulation and implementation of effective health policy. Their ongoing efforts are truly invaluable.”

Hon Malone said it gave him great pleasure to officially declare May 6 – 12, 2019 as Nurses Week and invited the entire Virgin Islands community to join him in acknowledging the invaluable contributions made by nurses in the territory.

“I especially encourage all health facilities, both private and public, to celebrate nurses for their integral role and unwavering commitment in our endeavor to ensure health for all.”