Health

Diabetes Center's $1 Million Funding Request Splits Lawmakers Over Support for Nonprofits and Chronic Care Services

A request for $1 million from the Community Facilities Trust Fund to support the Virgin Islands Diabetes Center of Excellence drew differing reactions from lawmakers, with some questioning whether the funding would be an appropriate use of government resources. The request has been brought to the attention of Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and legislators. According to Dr. Donna Christiansen, VIDCOE’s board chair, the funding is needed to help implement a residency program in partnership with Howard University and other local health entities, including the Department of Health. It would also support expansion of VIDCOE’s Chronic Care Management Program and service enhancements on St. John and St. Thomas. Dr. Christiansen appeared before the Committee on Health, Hospitals, and Human Services on Monday during a discussion on the Center’s operations. She thanked lawmakers for what appeared to be support from the Legislature. However, the discussion soon showed that some senators remained un...