Recent statements by the Healthcare Workers Union (ABV) regarding the financial and operational situation at Horacio Oduber Hospital (HOH) are extremely concerning to the MEP Faction. Signs that the hospital is in an alarming crisis due to a drastic increase in expenses and a drop in revenues cannot pass without Government attention and direct action. The fact that we are not receiving any information from the Government itself places this situation in an even more concerning light.
MEP Faction Demands Answers from the Minister of Health The continuity and quality of healthcare for our people must be guaranteed at all times, and given the financial situation presented by ABV, many questions and concerns arise. At the same time, reports that even the Governor was informed of this delicate situation while Parliament itself received no information are deeply concerning. For this reason, Member of Parliament Drs. Shailiny Tromp-Lee, through the President of Parliament, sent an official letter with a series of 19 questions addressed to the Minister of Public Health, Mrs. Mervin Wyatt-Ras.
“We cannot allow patients, healthcare workers, and the general public to remain in uncertainty. When we hear that expenditure on medicine and supplies has increased by almost 30%, and that the building expansion from 18,000 to 35,000 square meters has brought a drastic increase in water, electricity, and maintenance costs, and that patients have to seek essential services like MRIs elsewhere, we need complete clarity,” Tromp-Lee stated.
The questions sent to the Minister include, among others:
Information and verification: On what date the Minister was officially informed of this crisis situation, by whom, and how the situation is being addressed.
Finances and revenue streams: Confirmation on whether the third revenue stream was indeed lost, the exact amount this represents, and how this deficit is currently being covered.
Impact on patients: The reasons behind the situation with the MRI machine, urgent measures to protect patients, and the current state of waiting lists for surgeries and specialized treatments.
AZV and Budget: The proposal from the Executive Body AZV, whether the current lump sum reflects the actual costs of an expanded and modernized hospital, and what steps are being taken to prevent a financial collapse.
Human Resources: Guarantees that this crisis will not affect salary payments, secondary employee benefits, or the retention of medical and nursing staff.
Tromp-Lee emphasizes that healthcare is one of the most fundamental pillars of our society. “Our people have the right to a stable and top-quality healthcare system. I look forward to receiving the Minister’s answers to gain full transparency and seek structural solutions for HOH.”