The Joshua J Smith Building that houses the Social Security Board (SSB) and National Health Insurance (NHI) offices.
Health Minister Vincent Wheatley has promised reforms to the National Health Insurance (NHI) system, stating that changes are already underway to improve efficiency, accountability, and long-term sustainability while protecting access to care in the Virgin Islands.
Speaking at a public event marking a decade since the introduction of NHI, Wheatley said: “From the beginning, the National Health Insurance was built on a simple promise that no one in the Virgin Islands should be denied health care because they cannot afford it.”
He said the scheme has expanded access to medical services, eased the financial burden on families and provided peace of mind, including through overseas provider networks when treatment is unavailable locally.
“That protection remains firmly in place,” Wheatley stated.
At the same time, he acknowledged public concerns about how the system operates, including issues related to cost, efficiency and sustainability. “We have heard you,” he said, adding that NHI, the Ministry of Health and Social Development and the Social Security Board have reviewed what is working and what needs improvement.
Phased reform programme
Wheatley outlined a phased reform programme being implemented under the Alliance Agreement. Phase one, he said, is already underway and focuses on strengthening data collection and analysis across NHI and the BVI Health Services Authority. The aim is to better understand costs, services delivered and patient outcomes so decisions are based on evidence rather than perception. “We’re putting strong foundations in place so we can move confidently and efficiently into the next stage,” he stated.
Phase two will involve wider structural changes. According to the minister, the Alliance Agreement has been updated, the Contracts Committee has been re-established to improve oversight of provider contracts, and recommendations to amend NHI legislation and regulations have been received and are moving through the approval process. “That’s a big deal,” Wheatley said.
He said the agreement between the Social Security Board and the BVI Health Services Authority is also being reviewed to strengthen accountability, move gradually towards paying for performance, and separate capital funding from service delivery to protect patient care. Over time, he said, similar standards will apply to private providers to ensure cost-effective care delivered to clear benchmarks.
Wheatley said improvements will also be made to customer service, with clearer policies and better explanations of benefits, alongside stronger local and overseas provider networks. “Your concerns have been heard. The system has been reviewed, and a stronger, more sustainable way forward is already taking shape,” he added.
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