Healthcare workers in the Virgin Islands have been under tremendous pressure and have expressed concerns regarding their salaries and working conditions. Photo: VINO/ File

During the Talking Point program on Monday, May 11, 2026, the Minister for Health and Social Development, Hon. Vincent O. Wheatley (R9), stated that the review of current salaries for these workers is underway, and they will soon receive relief. However, a specific date for the implementation of the new salary structure has not yet been determined. Photo: Facebook

During Talking Points on Monday, May 11, 2026, on ZBVI 780 AM, the Minister for Health and Social Development, Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9), stated that the review of current salaries for these workers is underway, and they will soon receive relief; however, a specific date for the implementation of the new salary structure has not yet been determined.

Process underway

“So we have legislative changes that must happen, and they're currently being undertaken between HSA, NHI and Social Security,” the minister stated.

In March 2026, some nurses staged protest actions due to issues related to pay and funding. Hon Wheatley reaffirmed to doctors and nurses in the territory that a review is being conducted and that changes are in progress. However, the main concern remains finding the necessary funds to pay these workers.

“We have to figure out how we're going to get the money generating in the system. It's a complicated thing,” he added.

$10.3M increase 

The Health Minister also noted that a report received on December 19, 2025, indicated a required $10.3 million annual increase in salaries for all healthcare workers.

“I do not say they don't deserve it. The question is, where do we want to get it from? The thing is, it cannot come from only one place; it's going to come from a lot of places, too,” he said. 

Hon Wheatley emphasised that the ministry is working to implement these changes, saying, “We're going to take a little while, but I do believe we are now in May, I do believe by August, we should have some words to say, okay, effective this day, we can start putting that money there for persons.

“We are in the process. We have several meetings with the premier, the ministry itself, and the PS. We also have NHI in the room, Social Security in the room, and HSA in the room. We brought all these persons together. We come up with a comprehensive plan because we're losing good people. Because they're saying, we love the BVI, we love what we do. We just cannot live like this. Persons have gone, and I take that very seriously. I bless those who, despite all the challenges, are still going to give 110%.”