Minister Wyatt Ras appeared in Parliament for a public meeting to address concerns about care for our elderly. During this meeting, Parliamentarian Dangui Oduber highlighted all the projects that the Ministry of Health had left unfinished and that were subsequently halted by the current Minister Wyatt Ras. This is a regrettable and condemnable situation because public funds have already been used for these projects, which the people paid for to improve the quality of care and services.
Projects to Digitalize Healthcare Put Aside
Practically all projects meant to benefit the public have been shelved. One example is the Aruba Health App, which was intended to digitalize the entire healthcare sector. This project was prepared and designed by the Ministry of Health, Setar N.V., and AZV, all highly respected partners in the community. The project involved professionals with expertise in healthcare digitalization.
Even the first phase, which allows for digital appointments with general practitioners through the Aruba Health App, was launched but the following phases have been put on hold. This project was intended to organize and structure the entire healthcare sector using innovation and technology. Unfortunately, the project was halted, and Minister Wyatt Ras has not introduced anything to replace it. When a project is stopped, at the very least there should be a vision for an alternative, but in this case, nothing has been presented.
Vacation Rental Supervision Project
A project to regulate vacation rentals and privatize hygiene inspections under the “Dienst Warenkeuring” was also stopped. A lot of public funds were invested in this project to ensure control and supervision of vacation rentals and create a level playing field. This project was put aside as well, and nothing has been introduced to replace it, leaving the vacation rental sector in a “free-for-all” situation.
Zorgakkoord (Healthcare Agreement) Has Gone Missing
A healthcare agreement was signed with all medical care stakeholders to define the direction of healthcare in Aruba. At the time, even current Parliament member and Futuro faction leader Gino Goeloe signed the agreement as director of the White Cross. However, more than ten months into the government’s term, Parliament has received no updates on the progress of the Zorgakkoord.
In Parliament, Criticism; in Ministerial Seat, Inaction
Minister Wyatt Ras has proven to be a major disappointment. Despite his experience and 25 years in Parliament, now that he has the chance to govern, he has demonstrated that he is incapable of leadership. I am not saying he must continue every project left behind by the Wever-Croes Cabinet, but if he chooses to halt a project, he must explain his reasons and clarify what will replace it. Otherwise, public funds are being wasted for political whims.
He lacks management skills, vision, and leadership. Aruba deserves much better in healthcare!