WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao has implemented several structural improvements in healthcare to address urgent financial challenges. A solution has been reached for the payment backlog between Curaçao Medical Center (CMC) and the Analytical Diagnostic Center (ADC), ensuring the continuity of laboratory services. Additionally, tariffs at Klinika Capriles have been increased to cover financial shortfalls and improve healthcare quality.
Under the new arrangement, the Analytical Diagnostic Center (ADC) will now bill the Social Insurance Bank (SVB) directly instead of the CMC. This eliminates the risk of ADC discontinuing its services to the hospital due to outstanding payments.
Financial Stability for Klinika Capriles
The previous tariffs and budget allocated by the SVB to Klinika Capriles were insufficient to cover operational costs, leading to an annual deficit of approximately 3.4 million guilders. To address this, the Ministry of Finance has provided an advance payment, and the clinic will increase its tariffs, effectively eliminating the structural shortfall.
Healthcare Workforce & Medication Access
The last healthcare workforce assessment in Curaçao was conducted in 2018 and 2019. Due to an aging population and medical advancements, a revision was necessary. The Ministry of Health, Environment, and Nature (GMN) has updated its calculations to better reflect current demands for specialists, general practitioners, and other healthcare professionals.
Additionally, laws have been revised to facilitate the import and use of generic medicines, making medication more affordable and accessible.
The BIG register in Curaçao has also been revived. While it remains to be seen whether it will be fully implemented, the register will set standards for doctors, specialists, nurses, dentists, and alternative healthcare providers to safeguard healthcare quality.