An amendment to the laws governing medical practice in the territory will, if approved by the governor, clear the way for medical students at accredited institutions to complete their postgraduate training here in the Virgin Islands.
Attached to the non-germane bill in Tuesday's legislative session, amendment 35-581 adds a section to Title 27 VIC Chapter 1 Subchapter 1 that creates a "limited medical registration" category.
Immediately upon graduation from medical school, students are, as a component of their education, required to spend several years in training in a clinical setting such as a hospital or other healthcare facility. Working under the supervision of licensed specialists, the newly minted interns embark upon residencies that can last up to seven years, honing their skills in their chosen field of practice.
The amendment, sponsored by Senator Donna Frett-Gregory, would allow the Virgin Islands Board of Medical Examiners to grant limited medical registration certificates to qualified applicants, clearing them to complete their residencies in local hospitals, clinics, and healthcare institutions.
"This amendment is a win for the territory," said Ms. Frett-Gregory, in a written explanation to her colleagues. "Residents help hospitals with providing care to patients and doctors who are training the residents must stay current with what is happening in the medical field."
Ms. Frett-Gregory disclosed that the Schneider Regional Medical Center is already in discussions with Brown University to allow surgical residents to perform their rotations at the facility for up to two months.
During Tuesday's session, the reading of the amendment was waived through a motion by Senator Milton Potter, thus there was no debate amongst lawmakers. However, the amendment received unanimous support from senators when it came time to vote, making it part of the non-germane bill that is now awaiting the governor's signature.
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