The specialty of Internal Medicine is dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases affecting the internal organs of adults. Specialist in this field, known as internists, are professionals equipped to treat a variety of medical conditions. They focus on preventing, diagnosing and treating diseases that impact the internal organs and their interconnected systems. If necessary, patients can be referred to an internist with specific expertise.
Internal Medicine Specialities
- Diabetes
- Endocrinology (metabolic diseases)
- Infectious Diseases
- Geriatrics (medicine for older adults)
Consult an Internist for the following conditions
- Anemia and persistent fatigue
- Diabetes management
- Bone loss (osteoporosis)
- Memory problems, forgetfulness and dementia
- Falls or fainting episodes
- Polypharmacy (use of multiple medications)
- General vulnerability or impaired health
- Thyroid abnormalities
- Kidney dysfunction
- High blood pressure or high cholesterol levels
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever and infectious diseases
What to expect during your visit
During your appointment, the internist will conduct a detailed consultation and physical examination. If necessary, additional tests such as blood tests or radiographs may be performed. Once all results are available, the internist will collaborate with you to develop a customized treatment plan.
Important Note: Please bring an updated list of your medications to each appointment. Inform your doctor of any recent changes in your medication regimen to ensure the best care.
Specialists Internal Medicine
Dr. Jeanne Koeijers
Dr. Diederik Van de Wetering
Dr. Diederik Van de Wetering is an Internist-Infectiologist. He began his studies at the University Medical Center in Groningen. Later, he continued his studies at the Leiden University Medical Center where he received his PhD.
In 2013, Drs. Van de Wetering arrived in Curaçao and began working at St. Elisabeth Hospital and transitioned to CMC in 2019.
With expertise in general internal medicine and infectious diseases, Drs. Van de Wetering brings great knowledge and experience to the team at CMC.
Dr. Gerrit Schakel
Dr. Gerrit Schakel is an Internist-Geriatrician. He completed his education at the Alkmaar University Medical Center and the Amsterdam University Medical Center.
In 2013, Dr. Schakel joined St. Elisabeth Hospital in Curaçao. In 2019 he transitiona to Curaçao Medical Center (CMC).
Dr. Schakel’s expertise is more than general internal medicine, he also specializes in treating elderly patients with multimorbidity. In 2021, he helped establish the Memory Clinic, a multidisciplinary team that addresses cognitive disorders in patients.
Dr. Esther Rooijakkers
Dr. Esther Rooijakkers is an Internist-Infectiologist with a focus on Infectious Diseases. She completed her education at Maastricht University Medical Center.
Dr. Rooijakkers lives in Curaçao and has worked at Curaçao Medical Center (CMC) since the beginning of 2019.
As an internist, Drs. Rooijakkers treats patients ranging from 18 to 100+ years of age, each with a wide variety of health complaints. Whether from outpatients or the emergency department, it is challenging to identify the causes and interrelationships of these problems. She believes environmental factors often play a bigger role in health than people realize. While medication is sometimes necessary, lifestyle changes are often just as important, as in the case of diabetes. As an infectious disease specialist, she also works with diseases such as COVID, dengue and antibiotic resistance. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking or going snorkeling around Banda Bou.
Dr. Rachidah Griffith
Dr. Rachidah Griffith is an internist-endocrinologist with a focus on Internal Medicine and Endocrinology. She completed her education at the VU Medical Center, now part of Amsterdam UMC.
Dr. Griffith has been working in Curaçao since 2013 as an internist-endocrinologist. She specializes in hormonal disorders and the endocrine system, focusing on diagnosing and treating conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and hormonal imbalances. She works alongside other specialists to ensure that patients receive the best possible care and are guided toward a healthy, balanced life.
Specialized Nurses Internal medicine
Jennely Christopher
Function: Diabetes Nurse
Focus Areas: Diabetes Mellitus and support in managing potential complications.
Education: Amstel Academy, VUmc
At CMC since: 2019
“My passion is guiding patients toward a better life with diabetes by providing knowledge and support.”
Darrel Obispo
Function: Diabetes Nurse
Focus Areas: Educating and guiding patients with diabetes mellitus.
Education: Amstel Academy, VUmc
At CMC since: 2019
“A diabetes nurse is a guide on the journey to a healthier life, providing empathy and knowledge.”
Sterre Noordhoek
Position: Consultative Geriatric Nurse
Areas of Focus: Cognitive disorders, fracture and fall prevention, weight loss, osteoporosis research and treatment, polypharmacy, aftercare, and quality improvement.
Education: Bachelor of Nursing, University of Applied Sciences of Amsterdam (HvA) and Academy for Ambulance Care, BAZ, and Geriatrics, Amstel Academy
At CMC since: 2021
“My role is not only to provide care but to empower people in their vulnerability and support them through their personal challenges.”
Athalia Alberto
Position: Infectology Nurse
Areas of Focus: Guiding and supporting patients through their illness process.
Education: New Horizons, IFE, Virology Education
Affiliated with CMC since: 2017
“Knowledge is power.