Some of the Blood Bank equipment donated to the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) by the Rotary Club of Tortola. Photo: Rotary Club of Tortola

Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley (R9), 3rd from right, said the partnership with the Rotary Club of Tortola resulted in the introduction of cutting-edge technology to properly outfit the blood bank at the hospital. Right is Valerie Georges Thomas, President of the Rotary Club of Tortola. Photo: GIS

The official handover ceremony for the equipment was held last week Thursday, May 25, 2023, at Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital. Photo: GIS

Dr June M. Samuel, right, Acting CEO of the BVI Health Services Authority, inspects one of the Blood Bank equipment donated by the Rotary Club of Tortola. Photo: BVIHSA

The official handover ceremony for the equipment was held last week Thursday, May 25, 2023, at Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital.

Successful fundraising campaign

Last year, the Rotary Club, in partnership with the BVIHSA and the BVI Red Cross, spearheaded a successful fundraising campaign, raising $45,000 to acquire the much-needed equipment.

This commendable achievement was made possible through the generous support of both the local community and dedicated donors. Notably, a significant portion of the funds was generated through the participation of community members in the Grand Raffle that was held in September.

The newly acquired equipment empowers the blood bank to maintain an immediate inventory of blood units, significantly improving response times in critical situations. The laboratory will now have the capability to extract vital components such as plasma and platelets locally, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the blood bank's operations.

Functioning blood bank necessary to deliver ‘key healthcare’- Hon Wheatley

Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) said the partnership with the Rotary Club of Tortola resulted in the introduction of cutting-edge technology to properly outfit the blood bank at the hospital.

As a result, persons can now donate blood and staff at the hospital can conduct the necessary test on the blood for it to be properly delivered to patients. In addition, the new equipment also means the blood can be properly stored at the hospital.

Honourable Wheatley said a functioning blood bank is necessary to delivering key healthcare in the Territory.

"To have a functioning blood bank that is very efficient is very important. Could you imagine having to do an operation and in the middle of an operation you need blood and there is no blood? So, the equipment, I am sure makes the process more efficient and makes the blood more readily available. So, on behalf of the Ministry, we want to thank you for your very kind donation," the Minister said.

Honourable Wheatley expressed gratitude to the nurses and doctors at the hospital and clinics across the Virgin Islands for their services towards the advancement of healthcare in the Territory.

‘It is our privilege to contribute’- Rotary President

Valerie Georges Thomas, President of the Rotary Club of Tortola, highlighted the collaborative efforts behind the donation, stating, "The Rotary Club is proud to partner with the BVIHSA in this endeavor.

“We recognise the critical importance of a well-equipped blood bank in providing timely and reliable healthcare services. It is our privilege to contribute to the enhancement of the Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital's blood bank, ultimately benefiting the entire community."

Equipment Donated

 The donated equipment includes:

1.         Blood Bank Refrigerator: This specialized refrigerator ensures the proper storage and preservation of blood products, maintaining their quality and effectiveness.

2.         Manual Defrost Freezers: These freezers provide a controlled environment for the long-term storage of blood samples and other essential components.

3.         Plasma Freezer: The plasma freezer facilitates the proper storage of plasma, a crucial blood component utilised in various medical treatments.

4.         Serology and Blood Banking Centrifuge with Tubes: This centrifuge, along with the accompanying tubes, enables efficient separation of blood components, allowing for accurate testing and analysis.

5.         Blood Collection Mixer: The blood collection mixer ensures thorough mixing of blood samples, minimizing the risk of clots and ensuring reliable test results.

6.         Platelet Rotator: The platelet rotator provides the necessary gentle agitation for platelet samples, preserving their functionality and effectiveness.

7.         Tuttnauer Autoclave: The Tuttnauer Autoclave facilitates the sterilisation of equipment and supplies, ensuring the safety and integrity of blood bank operations.