News that the stalled hospital project is back on track (see related story) will no doubt be welcomed by many. There was a general feeling that something needed to be done soon regarding the current St. Maarten Medical Center, not in the last place among people working there.
An agreement was reached with VAMED that had won an earlier bid to build such a facility from the former Gumbs Cabinet and successfully went to court when a new tendering process was held by the current Government in which another company named INSO with a considerably lower offer was chosen. Thursday’s press release did not state what amount is involved in the settlement, but opposition leader Theo Heyliger had mentioned one million euros.
That’s a lot of money, but so was the US $10 million paid in the botched Zebec deal at the harbour. Still, it regards public funds and the people deserve accountability for every guilder spent in this manner.
Nevertheless, a brand new hospital should significantly reduce the NAf. 30 million paid per year in medical referrals abroad, because more specialist treatments will be possible locally. In addition, the improved facilities are probably going to attract a greater number of patients from elsewhere, including Saba and St. Eustatius.
Better health care can also help increase productivity, which is good for the economy. Not only that, but it’s likely to enhance the quality of life on the island.
