Word from official sources reaching our newsroom has confirmed that Covid-19 test results will now be received sooner than the projected 36-48 hour timeline presented recently by the BVI Health Services Authority.
The delayed turnover has attracted major public criticism from current and potential tourists who are frustrated at the possibility of being stuck in quarantine for more than the projected 5-days under current protocols.
In speaking with the acting Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Cedorene Malone-Smith yesterday, our newsroom was able to confirm that the issue has been resolved and a detailed update will be provided today for public consumption.
Mrs. Malone-Smith had recently stated that the “Go Live” of the BVI Health Services Authority’s new health information system is responsible for delays in persons receiving their COVID-19 test results.
It was noted that the Authority is currently in the process of transitioning from a dated Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system to a new and improved one. “This necessary upgrade will make us more efficient in the administration of our day-to-day functioning. The upgrade will also improve our service delivery to the BVI community,” Mrs. Malone-Smith said.
She further stated that the system upgrade will also assist in reducing delays and maintaining a high level of quality care at public healthcare facilities.
Tourists continue to speak out
“We’re headed in for our day 4 test in the morning and still don’t even have our day 0 results. At this rate we won’t get to do anything that we planned on… anything that can be done?” asked one tourist via Facebook.
Another opined “Been waiting to visit the BVI this season via our own vessel, but that’s looking like a big bust at this point. Will have to wait until November and hopefully they’ll have their act together. Feel bad for the tourism industry there. They’ve lost out on so much this year.”
