WILLEMSTAD – The shortage of ophthalmologists in Curaçao persists, causing wait times for eye care to increase further. 

Despite ministerial approval for the Curaçao International Hospital (CIC) to offer ophthalmology services, the facility has yet to become operational due to licensing and accreditation procedures. Meanwhile, both Curaçao Medical Center (CMC) and the Advent Hospital are struggling with a lack of specialists. 

Currently, CMC has only two ophthalmologists, while at least three are needed to meet demand. Director Gilbert Martina attributes this partly to the National Ordinance on Top Incomes (LNT), which has made it more difficult to attract specialists. The situation at the Advent Hospital is even more urgent, as its sole ophthalmologist recently left. 

Minister of Health, Environment, and Nature, Javier Silvania (MFK), has acknowledged the issue but has yet to present a concrete solution.