The Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), the Honorable
Claret Connor, hereby informs the public of the current status of Sint Maarten patients
receiving medical care in Colombia following the earthquake that affected parts of the
country earlier this week.
The Ministry, in close coordination with the Social & Health Insurances (SZV), has
continued to closely follow developments and remains actively engaged in safeguarding
the wellbeing of all Sint Maarten patients and ensuring the continuity of their medical
care.
Following the initial situation report issued on August 10, the Ministry has remained in
close contact with SZV and its International Offices. Based on the latest information
received, the situation has continued to stabilize, and healthcare services have largely
resumed normal operations.
Minister Connor stated, “I am pleased to report that our patients remain safe and
continue to receive the medical care they require. I extend my sincere appreciation to
SZV, our international partners, the medical institutions in Colombia, and all healthcare
professionals involved for their continued dedication and commitment to the wellbeing of
Sint Maarten patients during this challenging period.”
While a number of medical appointments were canceled in the immediate aftermath of
the earthquake, healthcare providers are actively working to reschedule these
appointments. Most of the affected appointments involve outsourced medical services,
and alternative arrangements are currently being explored to minimize disruption and
ensure continuity of patient care.
Patients who are nearing the completion of their treatment are being prioritized for
medical assessment and discharge in preparation for their return to Sint Maarten. At
present, approximately five to ten patients, excluding companions, are awaiting their
return home.
The primary challenge remains securing return flights to Sint Maarten due to very
limited airline seat availability. This is believed to be the result of the busy summer travel
season, combined with increased travel disruptions following the earthquake.
SZV and its International Offices continue to work closely with healthcare providers,
airlines, and travel partners to secure the earliest possible travel arrangements and
minimize delays.
“Although transportation challenges remain, I want to assure the public that patient
safety, continuity of medical care, and the timely return of our patients remain our
highest priorities,” Minister Connor stated. “The Government of Sint Maarten will
continue to closely oversee the situation and work alongside SZV to ensure that every
patient receives the necessary support and care until they are safely back home.”
The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor will continue to closely
oversee the situation and provide further updates to the public should there be any
significant developments.