Willemstad, May 9th, 2023 – Curacao Medical Center (CMC) deeply regrets to announce the cancellation of several operations due to a critical shortage of personnel. This unfortunate situation has compelled the hospital to limit its operations to only four functioning operating rooms, resulting in the restriction of surgeries to essential and acute cases.
The primary factor contributing to this personnel shortage at CMC is the absence of nine crucial staff members who are currently on long-term sick leave or have resigned. This unexpected loss of skilled professionals has presented a significant challenge for the hospital to maintain full capacity of operating rooms.
To address this urgent issue, CMC is actively taking measures to reinforce its workforce. The hospital has undertaken efforts to recruit operating room personnel from abroad, with the aim of swiftly filling the gaps in the operating teams. This international recruitment initiative aims to bring experienced professionals who can seamlessly integrate into the existing medical teams and ensure the continuity of high-quality care.
Furthermore, CMC recognizes the importance of investing in the local healthcare community. As part of its long-term strategy, the hospital is committed to developing and implementing local training programs with IFE for operating room assistants in Curaçao. These programs will provide aspiring individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge required to work effectively in operating rooms, thereby enhancing the local talent pool and reducing dependency on external sources.
The management at Curacao Medical Center sincerely apologizes to all patients affected by the necessary cancellations and assures them that every effort is being made to minimize the impact on their healthcare journey. The hospital remains dedicated to prioritizing the well-being and safety of its patients, and steps are being taken to reschedule the postponed surgeries as soon as possible. The planning departament will directly contact the affected patients.
CMC would like to express gratitude to the community for their understanding and support during this challenging time.
