Within less than one year in office, the Minister of Public Health, Social Affairs, Elderly Care and Addiction Management, Dr. Melvin G. Wyatt-Ras, has implemented a series of concrete measures aimed at improving social welfare, healthcare access, and social protection in Aruba.
Since the AVP-Futuro cabinet took office in March 2025, the Ministry has focused on strengthening financial support systems, restoring access to essential medicines, improving preventive healthcare, and initiating legislative reforms designed to have a long-term impact on the population.
Strengthening Financial Support and Social Protection
Several key measures have already been implemented:
- As of May 1, 2025, a monthly Afl. 250 increase in the reparatietoeslag was introduced for all AOV pensioners as well as widow and orphan pension beneficiaries.
- Government has confirmed a second monthly increase of Afl. 250, effective January 1, 2026, further improving purchasing power for seniors.
Additional social support measures include:
- Increase of school material assistance for low-income families to Afl. 250 per year
- Increase of child-care support for parents in vulnerable households to Afl. 250 annually
- Increase of school subsidies to Afl. 300 per month
- Increase of the bijstand norm amount from Afl. 450 to Afl. 600, expanding protection for vulnerable families
Improved Access to Healthcare
Key healthcare improvements include:
- Restoration of essential medicines to the positive list as of May 1, 2025, ensuring continued access for patients
- Approval and launch of a National Obesity Prevention Plan
- Start of an integrated diabetes care program, supported by Dutch funding
- Implementation of a referral protocol between primary and secondary healthcare, improving coordination between general practitioners and specialists
Mental Health, Addiction Care and Specialized Support
- Strengthened cooperation with international institutions to ensure adequate care for individuals with addiction or psychiatric conditions
- Finalization of updated mental health referral protocols
- Information provided to parents of children with disabilities regarding new financial assistance legislation for families requiring intensive care
Legislative Reforms and Future Preparedness
- Initiation of updates to the Bijstand legislation
- Start of legislative changes to improve pandemic preparedness and national resilience
- Approval by the Council of Ministers of the Draft Law for Children with Disabilities, now formally submitted to DWJZ, with parliamentary review expected in early 2026
Commitment Going Forward
The achievements of the first nine months of governance reflect a clear focus on implementation, sustainable care, and strengthened social protection. Minister Wyatt-Ras and her Ministry reaffirm their commitment to continue working decisively toward a healthier, stronger, and more socially just Aruba.
Photo Credits : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/a-cuminza-cu-accionnan-concreto-pa-bienestar-social-y-salud-na-aruba
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