ORANJESTAD (AAN) – Aruba MP Calls for Greater Support for Nurses and Healthcare, emphasizing that the future of the island’s healthcare system depends on investing in nursing professionals rather than focusing solely on buildings, technology, and infrastructure.
Following a recent meeting between Parliament and the Organization of Nurses of Aruba (ODEA), Member of Parliament Hendrik Tevreden said the discussion provided valuable insight into the challenges and long-term vision of Aruba’s nursing profession. He stressed that nurses remain the backbone of the healthcare system, providing around-the-clock care to patients every day of the year.
Tevreden noted that while public discussions often center on hospital facilities, medical equipment, and healthcare budgets, the country’s greatest investment should be in its healthcare workforce. He recalled the critical role nurses played during the COVID-19 pandemic and said their dedication should continue to be recognized even after the health crisis has passed.
According to Tevreden, ODEA’s priorities extend beyond salary discussions. The organization highlighted the importance of professional development, continuous education, career advancement opportunities, quality patient care, burnout prevention, and long-term workforce planning. He said strengthening these areas would ultimately improve healthcare services for patients across Aruba.
The parliamentarian also emphasized the urgent need for better workforce data and strategic planning. He said Aruba must understand how many nurses are expected to retire over the next decade, how many students are currently being trained, and which healthcare specialties face the greatest staffing shortages. Without reliable data and long-term planning, he warned, the country will continue reacting to workforce shortages instead of preventing them.
Tevreden added that nurses should have a stronger voice in shaping national healthcare policies, as they possess firsthand experience with the daily realities of the healthcare system. Their practical knowledge, he said, is essential for meaningful healthcare reform.
The discussions form part of the broader Vision Health Aruba 2035 initiative, which aims to create a comprehensive national healthcare strategy involving all stakeholders. Tevreden said the goal is to build a patient-centered healthcare system supported by well-trained, motivated, and valued healthcare professionals who are prepared to meet Aruba’s future healthcare challenges.
