Nurses group pushes value of steady primary care

The Virgin Islands State Nurses Association (VISNA) is rolling out an educational campaign to highlight the benefits of building a lasting relationship with a primary care doctor.

Called the Trusted Family Healthcare Provider series, the effort seeks to show residents why consistent medical supervision helps catch problems early, prevents complications, and leads to better health outcomes overall. VISNA President Dr. Suzette Lettsome said the initiative recognises that "having a trusted family healthcare provider can make a life-saving difference. When patients have consistent medical care, health concerns are identified earlier, treatment is more effective, and individuals feel more confident navigating their healthcare journey."

The campaign will address several topics: the role of preventive medicine, how routine visits catch disease in its early stages, handling long-term illness with ongoing supervision, the value of keeping medical records, and how a stable provider relationship strengthens communication and results.

VISNA plans to share the material via flyers, videos, and posts on social media across the territory. The association notes that depending only on emergency room visits can delay diagnosis and fragment care, whereas working with an established provider enables tailored, preventive treatment suited to each person's circumstances.

Dr. Lettsome added that "a trusted healthcare provider becomes familiar with your history, your risks, and your goals. This relationship helps prevent complications, reduces medical emergencies, and strengthens overall health and well-being."

The series encourages families to start building healthcare ties for children early and supports seniors in staying under regular medical care to maintain independence and quality of life. The campaign sits within VISNA's wider Teaching Moments initiative, which aims to give residents trustworthy health facts to support prevention and informed decision-making.

Those seeking details or wishing to participate can reach Dr. Lettsome at [email protected] or visit visna.nursingnetwork.com.