WILLEMSTAD – Ophthalmic care in Curaçao is once again facing significant challenges, including long waiting times and limited access to treatments. The Advent Hospital has unexpectedly ended its collaboration with a group of Mexican ophthalmologists, leading directly to an increase in waiting lists. Over the past three months, nearly 1,000 eye treatments, including cataract surgeries, were carried out thanks to the efforts of these specialists. With their departure, the healthcare sector is under renewed strain.
To ensure the continuity of care, the Ministry of Health, Environment, and Nature granted a license to the Curaçao International Clinic (CIC) in December 2024 to provide ophthalmic treatments. CIC is currently preparing and expects to be operational within a few months. This move is aimed at expanding healthcare capacity and reducing waiting times in the long term.
The Advent Hospital has requested additional financial support, but the Ministry has indicated that further assistance will only be provided if the hospital commits to previously made agreements, such as renewing the collaboration with the Mexican specialists. The Ministry stresses that quality care and adherence to agreements are non-negotiable.