The Government of the Virgin Islands has appointed four professionals to the Allied Health Professionals Council in its commitment to maintaining high standards of allied health services in the Territory.

The newly appointed members are:

• Dr. Virginia Rubaine – Clinical Psychologist
• Dr. Jerry Smith – Physiotherapist
• Dr. Aasha-Marie Flax-Miller – Medical Practitioner
• Dr. Michelle Martin – Clinical Psychologist

The Allied Health Professionals Council plays a pivotal role in regulating and overseeing allied health professionals, ensuring that the highest standards of care are upheld across various disciplines.

Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley welcomed the appointments, stating, "The Allied Health Professionals Council is integral to maintaining excellence in healthcare services across the Territory. We are confident that the expertise and dedication of these newly appointed members will contribute significantly to the advancement of allied health professions in the Virgin Islands."

New appointee Dr. Jerry Smith holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and brings 18 years of experience in the field of Physiotherapy. He is the CEO of Therapy Works, where he has been instrumental in advancing rehabilitative care in the Virgin Islands.

Dr. Virginia Rubaine, who previously served on the Council in 2008, holds a Doctor of Psychology degree and a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology. She is currently the Director of Mental Health Services at the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA), playing a crucial role in the development and management of mental health initiatives in the Territory.

Dr. Aasha-Marie Flax-Miller holds a Doctor of Medicine in Radiology and serves as a Medical Specialist (Radiology) at the BVIHSA and other medical centres across the Virgin Islands. Her expertise in diagnostic imaging is essential to the delivery of quality healthcare services.

Dr. Michelle Martin, a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the Virgin Islands, previously served as Chairman of the Council. She holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Master’s in Educational Psychology. She is the founder and owner of Helping Hands Family Center and Therapy 2 Thrive, providing essential mental health services to individuals and families.

The Government extends its appreciation to the appointees for their willingness to serve and looks forward to the positive contributions they will make to the healthcare sector.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development remains committed to improving the health and social well-being of the people of the Virgin Islands.