Asthma care in the Virgin Islands (VI) is being assessed with the implementation of a Medication Utilisation Review in partnership with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, Pooled Procurement Service (OECS/PPS). Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, Pooled Procurement Service, will conduct a Medication Utilisation Review for asthma care in the Virgin Islands and will also be responsible for analysing the data. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, Pooled Procurement Service, is a pooled procurement agency that provides excellent pharmaceutical and medical supplies management services to the OECS. Photo: OECS

The OECS/PPS will conduct the review and will also be responsible for analysing the data.

A press release from the Ministry of Health and Social Development on May 4, 2026, explained that a Medication Utilisation Review (MUR), also referred to as a Drug Utilisation Review (DUR), is a structured and ongoing quality improvement process conducted by healthcare professionals to ensure that medications are used appropriately, safely, and effectively. 

Healthcare professionals urged to participate

Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, Mrs Gracia Wheatley-Smith, encouraged healthcare professionals across the VI to actively participate in this critical process. A MUR, she said, is not only a professional responsibility, but also a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the advancement of pharmaceutical care.  

“Through the collection and analysis of data, healthcare providers are able to assess whether current treatment protocols are achieving the desired outcomes for patients.”

Waist circumference & prescription

Latest studies have shown there is an association between waist circumference and adult asthma attacks. Mrs Wheatley-Garcia said the Ministry of Health is seeking to have the waist circumference measured by the doctors and recorded on the prescriptions. The Pharmacist will then be responsible for further data management.  

“The data collected by pharmacists plays a central role in this process. By evaluating prescribing trends and comparing them with internationally established guidelines, healthcare professionals can determine whether current practices are both therapeutic and effective. Where necessary, targeted interventions can be implemented to bridge gaps and enhance the quality of care delivered to patients across the Virgin Islands.”

Findings & recommendations 

Following the completion of data analysis, findings and recommendations will be formally presented to healthcare professionals through a dedicated workshop. This forum will serve as a platform to share insights, discuss outcomes, and guide the implementation of any recommended changes in prescribing practices. 

“This initiative reflects the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to strengthening healthcare systems through collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and continuous improvement. By participating in Medication Utilisation Reviews, healthcare professionals across the Virgin Islands are playing a direct role in shaping safer, more effective, and globally aligned standards of care,” Mrs Wheatley-Smith added.