Reprinted from Caribbean Net News
caribbeannetnews.com

BVI physicians reminded to comply with practice requirements
12-14-2006

ROAD TOWN, BVI: Physicians in the British Virgin Islands are being reminded to comply with requirements for practicing medicine and dentistry under sections 10, 11 and 18 of the Medical Act, 2000.

Chairperson of the BVI Medical and Dental Council Dr June Samuel says that a number of infractions were recorded by the Council over the course of 2006.

Dr Samual said active registrations through the Council are necessary for practicing medicine and dentistry in the BVI.

She said in addition, non-belonger physicians engaging in private practice must have an up-to-date grant of approval from the Minister for Health and the Minister must also grant permission for the non-belonger physician to take on a new or additional contract at a new location. 'These are the requirements by law," she said.

Dr Samuel said the Council will soon be putting forward recommended amendments to the Medical Act for the Minister’s consideration and these recommendations, among other things, would introduce a licensing process for physicians and establish a specialist register.

The revisions are intended to increase efficiency and relevant background checks as is required under the Act, Dr Samuel said.

Currently, 82 doctors are registered in the BVI to practice medicine and seven to practice dentistry. There have been 17 new registrations and 28 re-registrations from January 2006 to present. Four applications were denied.

The Council also conducted one investigation into a complaint received from a patient in reference to a registered physician during 2006.