Revived Nurses' Association wants to have a say in ‘decision making’ process
Among the several things the association has set out to do is to advocate to be integrally involved in legislatives matters as it relates to nurses, according to Ms Gail A. Scotland who is the new president of the association.
The association was said to have been dormant for about four years due to challenges beyond its control. However, it was following a meeting on July 7, 2015 with Chief Nursing Officer Ms Jacinth Hannibal that the nurses realised they could have their interests best represented and advanced with the resuscitation of the association.
Executive Committee
A meeting was subsequently held and Ms Gail A. Scotland was elected President. Other elected members are Vice President Noelene Levons-Clarke, Secretary Angela Greenidge-Rock, Treasurer Cherry-Ann George-Smith, Assistant secretary/treasurer Rosa Ravariere-Seaman, Public Relations Officer Susaye Smith, Floor Member- Yon Ellis and Ex Officio member Rupertha Ephraim.
“Our immediate focus will be, but not confined to, recruitment and strengthening the Organisation. There is strength in numbers; any organisation is as strong as the membership. An old African proverb says individually we are but one drop, collectively we are an ocean. We are now over 50 members and others have shown interest. The BVINA is for everyone registered with the BVI Nursing Council to practice within the territory,” Ms Scotland told this news site.
She said that the association also wants to empower nurses to advocate and negotiate on issues that they consider important as a body, which can positively impact healthcare within the VI. “We are a vital resource to the health team and a force for change. We are indeed the largest group of health professionals and have a responsibility to improve health. Nurses are the backbone of any health organisation globally,” she said.
“We are striving to that place where we will be financially stable enough to enable nurses access to continuing educational opportunities. We have to contribute to the improvement of patient safety and the quality of the health care which will ultimately enhance the nurses’ morale,” noted Ms Scotland.
The association is also seeking to improve the relationship between the administration of the BVIHSA and the nursing body, patients and nurses. “Also in terms of our functions….promote legislation and represent nurses as it relates to legislative measures which concern nurses welfare.”
'Burning' concerns
Ms Scotland noted that many nurses voiced their concerns about stability and immigration status having worked for a number of years and still on contract.
She explained that this is and has been a burning issue of especially nurses who have been under the employment of the BVIHSA for many years.
The new executive has already convened its first meeting and will be working with the theme: "Moving forward no Nurse left behind".
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10 Responses to “Revived Nurses' Association wants to have a say in ‘decision making’ process”
1. Get qualified!
2. Get registered to practice in the Territory
3. Come home and actively seek employment i.e. fill application form and submit ALL requisite information/documents. No free ride here.
4. Have family in management or be good friends with someone in management
5. Go to church in Duff's Bottom
6. Don't get too qualified as you will intimidate management and they will suddenly "have no job that meets your qualifications"