WILLEMSTAD - The government of Curaçao is working on what it describes as a transformative reform of elderly care. The Ministries of Health, Environment and Nature (GMN), Social Development, Labor and Welfare (SOAW), and Finance are joining forces to improve the quality of care for the elderly. Key measures include the creation of a central elderly care desk and a central assessment committee.
These reforms aim to make elderly care more efficient and accessible. The elderly care desk will serve as a central point of contact where seniors and their families can find information and support for applying for care services. Case managers will assist elderly individuals in finding suitable care options. The central assessment committee will standardize the evaluation of care needs, which is expected to reduce bureaucracy and ensure consistent assessments.
The proposed changes are part of a broader action plan presented on December 13. The first reforms are set to begin in early 2025. In addition to the establishment of the centralized desk and assessment committee, the action plan also focuses on improving insurance provisions such as the General Special Health Insurance Fund (Algemeen Verzekering Bijzondere Ziektekostenfonds) and the general old-age insurance. Reducing waiting lists for home care and offering better support for caregivers are also high priorities.
This comprehensive overhaul is designed to address the growing demand for elderly care in Curaçao, ensuring a more streamlined and effective system for its aging population.