WILLEMSTAD – The administrative instruction hanging over the Curaçao Medical Center (CMC) is likely off the table. In a lengthy letter to the Public Health Inspection, the hospital claims to meet the conditions imposed to avoid the imposed administrative enforcement. The discussion primarily revolved around waiting lists and patient referrals to the Advent Hospital, where patients could receive faster assistance.
On October 5, 2023, the Public Health Inspection imposed an administrative enforcement measure on CMC. This measure required the hospital to appoint an expert to oversee and coordinate the process of referring patients to the Advent Hospital. CMC had until October 16, 2023, to comply with this requirement.
The hospital appealed the decision to the Court of First Instance in Curaçao. Despite disagreeing with the imposed measure, CMC decided to meet the conditions to avoid administrative enforcement. The hospital board used six pages of the eight-page letter to outline the reasons why they disagreed with the decision.
Disagreement
CMC disagrees with the Inspection's decision because they believe there is no legal obligation to refer patients to Advent, as the Inspection claims.
According to CMC, there is only an obligation to make efforts to ensure the continuity of care. Additionally, CMC argues that the referral process is functioning well, with no violation of the relevant legislation.
CMC also points out that it is not possible to refer all patients to Advent because Advent lacks certain required medical specialties and facilities. Furthermore, CMC highlights that Advent's operating rooms do not meet the necessary quality standards for certain surgeries and that the Asa qualification of patients must be determined before they can be referred.
Finally, CMC asserts that patients have the right to choose whether they want to be referred or not, and a significant number of patients opt to be treated at CMC despite the waiting list.
Financial Situation
The letter discusses the financial situation of the Curaçao Medical Center (CMC). Since the opening of the new hospital, CMC has received insufficient healthcare funding, leading to legal proceedings. At the same time, there is a growing demand for healthcare services.
The Inspection has implemented measures that further increase the financial pressure on CMC, without taking into account the need for additional healthcare funding to reduce waiting lists. CMC has calculated that ANG 22.3 million is required for this purpose and is in the process of submitting a request for additional healthcare funding.
Finally, it is noted that the Inspection's actions are harmful to CMC, healthcare providers, and trust in the healthcare system in Curaçao. It emphasizes the need for good, constructive collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure accessibility, continuity, and quality of healthcare.