ORANJESTAD (AAN) – SIKI Urges AZV to Reconsider Cancer Treatment Decision after representatives of Fundacion SIKI and the family of a young cancer patient publicly appealed for Aruba’s health insurer to reconsider its position regarding the patient’s treatment options.
During a recent press conference, Jayburtt Dijkhoff of Fundacion SIKI, alongside Ricardo Croes, outlined the medical situation involving Croes’ son and expressed concern over the decision made by AZV regarding his treatment. The statements reflect the views presented by the family and the foundation during the press conference.
Family Requests Immunotherapy Instead of Surgery
According to Dijkhoff, the young man was diagnosed with cancer affecting one of his organs and was referred by AZV to Colombia for surgery to remove the affected organ.
While in Colombia, the family requested that, instead of proceeding directly with surgery, the patient be allowed to receive immunotherapy, a treatment they said has been scientifically approved in many countries and can be tailored to specific types of cancer with the goal of preserving the affected organ and improving quality of life.
Dijkhoff stated that approximately two weeks later, AZV responded that the referral had been approved for surgery to remove the organ, not for immunotherapy. He said the family was informed that if the patient did not proceed with the approved treatment, he could return to Aruba.
Foundation Raises Concerns
During the press conference, Dijkhoff argued that returning to Aruba could significantly reduce the patient’s chances of receiving the specialized treatment he believes is needed.
He also stated that, without the requested therapy, the patient’s cancer is highly aggressive and that every day without treatment increases the health risks. These statements were presented by Dijkhoff during the news conference and have not been independently verified within the information provided.
Appeal for Dialogue
Fundacion SIKI criticized what it described as bureaucracy, inadequate communication, and a lack of transparency in the handling of the case.
Dijkhoff also argued that while Aruba’s laws recognize a patient’s right to make informed decisions about medical treatment, patients often feel pressured toward specific treatment options.
The foundation called on AZV to enter into discussions with the family to explore whether additional options remain available that could improve the young man’s chances of recovery.
Fundacion SIKI concluded its appeal by urging all parties to work together in the best interests of the patient and his family, expressing hope that a solution can still be found.
