Bermudian-based re/insurer Axa XL has contributed $40,000 to the Bermuda Hospitals Charitable Foundation to support the Covid-19 vaccination clinic at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.

Axa XL said its donation is in response to the BHCF’s appeal for individuals and businesses to help cover the cost of running the Bermuda Hospitals Board vaccination clinic, including the considerable expense incurred in administering vaccines.

While vaccines are given at no cost to individuals in Bermuda, there are increasing costs to the BHB for the nurses, administrators and equipment needed to handle patient intake and administer the vaccine as the clinic continues to operate to support the Government’s vaccination programme, the company said.

Patrick Tannock, chief executive officer of Axa XL’s Bermuda Insurance Operations and president of the XL Foundation, Axa XL’s philanthropic unit in Bermuda, said: “The role of the only medical hospital on island is important in normal times, however during these challenging times its role is even more critical.

“Given the recent increase in Covid-19 positive cases and deaths, it is important for all of us to do all that we can to support the stability of the hospital and our entire healthcare system. It is equally imperative that the hospital has the resources required to support Government’s efforts to reduce community transmission through increased vaccination.

“In addition to our donation, we applaud the efforts of those working tirelessly at the hospital and throughout the island to reduce the spread of Covid-19 and to protect everyone, especially the most vulnerable.

“While these are challenging times, the increased availability and efficacy of the vaccines should give us hope that together we will get through this pandemic.”

Lisa Sheppard, executive director of the BHCF, said: “I wish to sincerely thank Axa XL for the donation to the BHB Covid-19 vaccination clinic. This kind and generous gift has helped enable the island’s only hospital to continue with the important work of the national vaccination programme.

“The Covid-19 global pandemic is depleting healthcare services globally and we are so grateful for this much needed support during this critical time.”