WILLEMSTAD – Although plans for reforms in Curaçao’s healthcare system have been established since the launch of the Curaçao National Package, tangible results remain elusive, according to an analysis of the Implementation Report for the Curaçao National Package. Persistent issues, such as rising healthcare costs, limited capacity, and a lack of collaboration among healthcare providers, continue to burden the system. While progress has been made in terms of planning, many projects are behind schedule.
The national packages were introduced as part of an agreement between the Netherlands and the Caribbean countries within the Kingdom during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Due to the economic impact of the pandemic, the islands faced severe financial difficulties and requested assistance from the Netherlands.
In exchange for financial support, reform measures were proposed to strengthen the economy, government, and public sector. These measures were consolidated into "national packages" and are being implemented under the supervision of the Temporary Work Organization (TWO), which monitors and supports progress.
Sustainability Challenges
A major challenge is the financial sustainability of the healthcare system. Rising healthcare expenditures continue to strain the system. The substitution policy, aimed at promoting cheaper alternatives for expensive medications, still requires significant attention. While this measure is intended to help control costs, its implementation is not yet complete and is now expected to be finalized in early 2025.
The issue of compensation for medical specialists also remains a key point of focus. A solution is needed that balances cost control with fair compensation for healthcare professionals. Negotiations are ongoing, and no concrete decisions have yet been made.
Delays in Sector Improvement Plans
Additionally, the planning for improvements in both the care and cure sectors has faced delays. Reports on these sectors, as well as reports on prevention and the issue of uninsured individuals, have been postponed. These reports are now expected to be available at the end of 2024 or early 2025. Without these insights, it remains difficult to implement targeted policy measures.
The limited progress is largely due to capacity issues and complex governance challenges. The Curaçao Medical Center (CMC) continues to be under pressure from high healthcare demand and financial difficulties. The implementation of planned reforms within the hospital is progressing slower than anticipated.
Need for Collaboration
Healthcare reforms require not only structural changes but also intensive collaboration among various parties. Despite a strong commitment to improving the healthcare system, most of the plans remain in the preparatory phase. The delay in reform implementation continues to present significant challenges for the sector, with the long-term success of the reforms still uncertain.
