WILLEMSTAD - The Health Inspectorate, after an independent investigation in the operating complex of Curaçao Medical Center, has revealed various issues. Although the situation does not pose an immediate danger to patient care in the operating rooms, these problems contribute to a decreased surgical output and ongoing unrest among the staff.
Following a strike by the operating room personnel and the CBV union, the Health Inspectorate decided to conduct a thorough investigation. The results have been documented in an inspection report. The investigation revealed that a significant number of issues, previously raised by the operating room personnel and the CBV, are also experienced by other departments within the hospital.
The study particularly highlighted a shortage of operating room staff, lack of communication, issues with logistics surrounding surgeries, and inadequate training and education. Furthermore, the staff often feels unheard by the Board of Directors.
These issues result in operational problems, such as surgeries starting late and delayed patient arrivals for surgeries.
The issues on supporting departments, such as the frequent unavailability of necessary materials on time, also negatively impact the functioning of the operating rooms.
Since the opening of Curaçao Medical Center, the Board of Directors has initiated various improvement trajectories and has promised a continued commitment to enhancement. The Medical Staff Board has also provided concrete recommendations for a targeted approach.
The Health Inspectorate will closely monitor the progress of the improvements until the identified issues are resolved.