Within the framework of International Patient Safety Day, the official launch of the Aruba Patient Center (Centro Pashent di Aruba PDA) took place, the first organization in the country’s history created by patients, for patients. This initiative, established by the president of the SIKI Foundation, Jaburtt Dijkhoff, and his team, arrives to fill a crucial gap in the healthcare sector, serving as the voice of citizens in a system where traditionally institutions have been the most heard.
A support network for a more humane care
During the presentation, the founders emphasized the urgent need for a national platform. Pointing out the current healthcare landscape, every key stakeholder from specialists and health institutions to the government—has formal and structured representation, except for the patient.
“If you speak of specialists, institutions, or government, everyone has representation except the patient. The patient is repeatedly left alone, one by one, and their voice does not reach far enough. We want to break that stigma by bringing dignified representation to all patients in Aruba,” declared Jaburtt Dijkhoff.
The event featured broad and diverse participation. Alongside patients, representatives from various health organizations, care institutions, and leaders from government and parliament were present. The primary goal of the platform is not to engage in conflict with these entities, but to work as a team (networking) to complement the human factor that is often missing in the healthcare system.
Free and accessible services for everyone
The platform is in a gradual building phase, but starting right now it offers completely free services for the entire community of Aruba:
Information and Guidance: Orientation on where to go when help or assistance is needed in healthcare.
Complaint Management: Assistance and guidance on where and how to submit a complaint or point out a problem in the system.
Defense of Rights: Representation of the fundamental rights of the patient within the national health network.
A call to the community: “Unite to Make the Change”
The success and growth of the Aruba Patient Center depend directly on the participation of the public. For this reason, the organization makes a warm appeal to all citizens to be part of this movement.
How can you contribute?
Register as a member: Visit the official website www.pashent.org and register yourself. Membership is 100% free.
Share your experience: By sharing your story and experiences within the healthcare system, you help the center understand real challenges and improve services for the whole community.
With this historic step, the Aruba Patient Center opens a new door where the patient is no longer merely a recipient of care, but an active participant with a voice, a vote, and dignified representation.
