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‘NHI has become a pillar of financial protection' - Premier Wheatley

he Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), has praised the contributions of the National Health Insurance (NHI). Photo:Facebook
 The Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) and Minister for Health and Social Development, Hon. Vincent O. Wheatley along With BVI Social Security Board (SSB),Director Mrs Jeanette A. Scatliffe-Boynes and other members of the NHI board were present at the NHI's 10th anniversary commemorative ceremony.Photo:Facebook
The Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) and Minister for Health and Social Development, Hon. Vincent O. Wheatley along With BVI Social Security Board (SSB),Director Mrs Jeanette A. Scatliffe-Boynes and other members of the NHI board were present at the NHI's 10th anniversary commemorative ceremony.Photo:Facebook
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI– The Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), has praised the contributions of the National Health Insurance (NHI), stating, "NHI has enabled thousands of Virgin Islanders and residents to access medical care that they may not otherwise have been able to afford."

His remarks were made during the NHI's 10th anniversary commemorative ceremony, held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.

"It has provided relief from illness, supported families through difficult moments, and allowed many to enjoy a better quality of life. In doing so, NHI has become a pillar of financial protection and a driver of wellness across the Virgin Islands," he said.

The Premier stated, "As we reflect on this decade of impact, we must also look ahead. The next 10 years will demand innovation, inclusiveness, and continuous improvement."

Quality of healthcare being discussed

The Leader of Government Business also mentioned that he has started discussions with the Health Minister and other key stakeholders about the quality of healthcare delivered in the Virgin Islands. He said he is aware of the necessary steps to ensure that the National Health Insurance remains sustainable and understands what is needed to support financing institutions such as the Health Services Authority.

"I am encouraged that NHI remains committed to strengthening service delivery, expanding partnerships and ensuring that the system remains responsive to the evolving needs of our people."

He emphasised the government’s commitment to continue building a sustainable, equitable, and resilient healthcare framework.

Honouring the people behind NHI

The Premier commended the staff of the NHI during the anniversary celebration, stating, "The anniversary celebrations also present an opportunity to honour the people behind the system, the dedicated staff of the NHI, past and present, who have carried this mission forward with professionalism and heart many of you have served since the very beginning, and your contributions will be recognised throughout this week of celebratory events."

He also made special mention of the former Minister for Health, Honourable Ronnie W. Skelton (AL), for his role in establishing the National Health Insurance.

7 Responses to “‘NHI has become a pillar of financial protection' - Premier Wheatley”

  • A disaster (08/01/2026, 10:52) Like (6) Dislike (1) Reply
    A failed system only of benefit to the private so called healthcare providers scalping sick tax payers who then remain sick
  • Senior native citizen of the British Virgin Islands (08/01/2026, 11:24) Like (5) Dislike (2) Reply
    Truly the NHI is a highly valuable help to a large number of citizens of the B.V.I, as was recognized and admitted by our Hon. Premier, Dr. Natalio Sajuande Wheatley, but he has failed to mention the leader, Dr. Orlando D. Smith, Dr. Kendrick, Mark Vanterpool, and of course the other members of the NDP party that were a part of its origin.
    In being fair to others, though in disagreement on issues, honoring others for their past and present contribution show great respect to them, the contrary don't. NHI though crookedly managed at times, is a positive venture.
  • Cant fool we (08/01/2026, 11:31) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
    NHI made all the Doctors instant millionaires
  • More people are dying since NHI (08/01/2026, 11:35) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    He is bigging up Ronnie to get him on his side....lol........Mean while Delilah is there to protect her brother
  • smh (08/01/2026, 11:55) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    seriously????
  • Kid Buu (08/01/2026, 12:23) Like (10) Dislike (0) Reply
    financial protection for all those private drs who raping it into oblivion while we get limited benefits and limited coverage and limited funding on expensive life saving operations.

    so yea good for the elites and private health care services who love money and greed. bad for consumers who pay into it expecting their health to be covered by THEIR contributions.......... and talk going around that yall actually planning to increase the price on nhi contributions woow thats a good reform for yall and the greedy to make even more money....kinda similar to local markets who already makes 500% profits on essential items but still want more by increasing their prices every week..........................................

    TAX RETURNS when?....................

    increase tax brackets when?

    Price control when?

    riot when??
  • Bankrupt (08/01/2026, 13:31) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    NHI has bankrupted the BVI GOVERNMENT at $80 million ($80,000,000) per year.

    It did make all the local doctors multi-millionaires...


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