PHILIPSBURG-- Approximately five to ten St Maarten patients, excluding companions, are currently awaiting their return home from Colombia following the earthquake that affected parts of the country earlier this week.
Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA) Claret Connor said the situation has continued to stabilize and that healthcare services in Colombia have largely resumed normal operations.
The Ministry has remained in close contact with the Social and Health Insurances (SZV) and its International Offices since the initial situation report issued on August 10. The Ministry said it continues to monitor developments and work to safeguard the wellbeing of Sint Maarten patients and the continuity of their medical care.
Minister Connor said the patients remain safe and continue to receive the medical care they require. “I am pleased to report that our patients remain safe and continue to receive the medical care they require.”
A number of medical appointments were canceled immediately following the earthquake, but healthcare providers are actively working to reschedule them. Most of the affected appointments involve outsourced medical services, with alternative arrangements being explored to minimize disruption and ensure continuity of care.
Patients who are nearing completion of their treatment are being prioritized for medical assessment and discharge in preparation for their return to Sint Maarten.
The main challenge currently facing the patients is securing return flights due to very limited airline seat availability. According to the Ministry, this is believed to be linked to the busy summer travel season, combined with increased travel disruptions following the earthquake.
SZV and its International Offices are continuing to work with healthcare providers, airlines and travel partners to secure the earliest possible travel arrangements and minimize delays.
Connor said patient safety, continuity of medical care and the timely return of patients remain the Ministry's highest priorities.
“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 Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor said it will continue to oversee the situation and provide further updates if there are significant developments.
