Health & Wellness

Problem

Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements in the Virgin Islands are based on catastrophically outdated cost data from the 1980s (last updated in 1982 for RLS and 1996 for JFL), resulting in chronic underfunding of our hospitals and healthcare system. Further, residents face limited access to primary and specialty care providers, often relying on emergency rooms or traveling off-island for routine care.

Solution

• End 40 years of healthcare underfunding by securing fair federal funding for Virgin Islands healthcare
• Aggressively pursue Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act (TEFRA) rebasing in collaboration with the Delegate to Congress
• Submit an updated territorial health state plan to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
• Fast track the rebuild of the territory's two hospitals and Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center
• Increase primary care and specialty care access by integrating telehealth in clinics and hospitals
• Establish a clinical care partnership with a national hospital brand
• Bring back basic health care services to our schools (ex. dental visits)

Impact

Reduction in uncompensated care liability, stronger hospitals, and greater access to primary, specialty, and hospital care for Virgin Islanders both on-island and off-island.

Problem

Shortage of critical medical staff and struggle to retain local nurses and medical staff in the USVI severely limit healthcare delivery.

Solution

• Strengthen recruitment and retention through competitive compensation, housing and cost-of-living incentives, and loan repayment programs
• Build local health professional training programs in partnership with UVI

Impact

A stable local healthcare workforce, reduced reliance on temporary staff, improved quality of care, and faster access to services for residents.

Problem

The Virgin Islands lacks sufficient behavioral health infrastructure, with shortages of providers, limited crisis and treatment services, and high stigma deterring help-seeking.

Solution

• Expand the behavioral health workforce through recruitment and training
• Increase access to services through mobile units and telehealth
• Complete the final phase of the Eldra Schulterbrandt facility and build new mental health facilities
• Integrate mental health support and counseling in all schools
• Launch community-based programs and public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and encourage early intervention

Impact

Improved mental health outcomes, fewer crisis situations, stronger families, and healthier, more resilient communities.