SZV looking to charter plane to fly stranded patients home

February 4, 2018

PHILIPSBURG–Social and Health Insurances SZV is examining the feasibility of chartering an aircraft to fly its 15 patients and their companions, who are stranded in the Dominican Republic, home to St. Maarten.
SZV said over the weekend that its medical referral patients in the Dominican Republic, who had been discharged, are now faced with prolonged stays in the country due to the cancellations of PAWA flights.
The insurance service provider said it recognises the impact of this, and its team has been working actively towards alternatives for its patients, who are currently affected. At the moment, a total of 15 persons (patients and companions combined) are pending travel arrangements to return to St. Maarten.
“It is a very undesirable situation for all. Together with various parties and stakeholders we are seeking the best and safest means of transport back home for our patients. The process itself requires the necessary time and collaboration to ensure that all legal, compliance and safety regulations are met,” SZV said in its release.
“One of our options is to charter a plane. We are currently investigating this option to see if it is a viable short-term solution. It is important to share that for this option, we are reliant on the respective authorities, landing rights, suitable aircrafts, etc. Our team has been working tirelessly on this situation, and we are thankful for the support of our partners thus far. Our discharged patients need to return home to continue their recuperation and such. We know that families need to be re-united and we ask our patients to hold on tight as we continue to work on solutions,” SZV Director Glen Carty said.
Additionally, recent Insel Air flight disruptions have also been impacting the medical travel of SZV patients. “So far, the biggest impact of this has been prolonged delays and last-minute flight changes.” SZV advised patients travelling with InselAir to continuously monitor flight change announcements by the airline. Changes in flight plans occur within hours’ notice. SZV asks patients to pay extra attention to this.
Patients abroad seeking to contact SZV with general inquires can do so via website: www.szv.sx, SZV’s Facebook page, email: info@szv.sx or by calling tel. +1721-546-6782.