Philipsburg: ---- State Secretary of Health George Pantophlet says that discussion with the Minister of Health Omayra Leeflang has given him a better indication as to what areas has to be tackled regarding Healthcare specifically on St. Maarten. After meeting with government and the relevant health care institutions Pantophlet says he would be busy preparing a plan of action identifying the issues that can be dealt with on short term and long term basis
The newly appointed State Secretary said he places emphasis on the collaboration and cooperation of all involved. It is often said that crime is everybody's business and he believes this can also be said of health. Nothing can burden on a country more than having a population where too many are having health issues. Just to name a few such as poverty, unemployment and worry all of these make life stressful and can definitely cause health problems.
Pantophlet said he also learnt recently that the issue of Dengue has been reduced significantly since October to around 40 in November which he hopes will be down to zero shortly. He is still awaiting the December and January figures which are being compiled. Also the matter of "How Healthy is St. Maarten". The report uses figures from 2000. These must be updated.
He is also concerned about the fact that HIV Aids is still on the rise. The programs are continuing and I commend all those persons involved. But these will be unsuccessful if individuals don't change their behavior. Another problem that has been ongoing for too long has to do with Turning Point being given the same status as "Brasami" on Curacao. We need a short term solution to this long term problem.
