MP Veronica Jansen-Webster calls for urgent attention to amputees in at. Maarten

GREAT BAY--Member of Parliament Veronica Jansen-Webster, Chair of the Parliamentary Committee of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), has officially written to Minister of VSA, Minister Brug, urging swift attention and policy review for one of St. Maarten’s often-overlooked groups — the amputees.

During her tenure as Minister, Jansen-Webster began identifying groups in society who don’t get much attention in the media or from government. Since becoming a parliamentarian, MP Jansen-Webster, together with a prosthetics professional, has been visiting citizens who have lost limbs and are now facing unnecessary challenges in accessing prosthetic care and support. In her letter to Minister Brug, she outlined key findings and summarized testimonies gathered during visits to several amputees.

“Many of our amputees have been left waiting for too long,” Jansen-Webster stated. “Some are uninsured, others are struggling to access the right type of prosthetic or proper aftercare. These individuals have shown remarkable strength and resilience, and it is time that our system reflects that same commitment to them.”

Her correspondence highlights the need for more accessible and efficient prosthetic services on the island. Currently, many residents, though legally living and working here, are self-employed or independent contractors and therefore not eligible for SZV insurance coverage. Others rely on foreign suppliers whose services are limited and infrequent, making follow-up and repairs difficult.

MP Jansen-Webster also recommended that the Minister authorize SZV to collaborate with prosthetic providers on the French side, which would allow patients to receive timely, continuous care on the island.

“It should not take months for someone to receive or adjust a prosthetic,” she emphasized. “Imagine losing a limb and then having to wait to walk again because a technician is unavailable. That is not acceptable and it’s something we can fix.”

Beyond prosthetics, Jansen-Webster called on the Minister to fast-track the process toward universal insurance coverage for all residents, including self-employed individuals. She stressed that delaying this matter further would continue to leave many citizens without access to essential healthcare.

The MP reaffirmed her commitment to continue working with local professionals, SZV, and the relevant ministries to ensure amputees receive the care, respect, and dignity they rightfully deserve.

“This is not just about policy, it’s about people,” Jansen-Webster concluded. “No one should feel overlooked or left behind simply because they have lost a limb.”

MP Jansen-Webster invites amputees to register by sending a text to 1721-585-0089 for the prosthetics professional to visit them. Amputees can also be stronger together by forming an advocacy group.

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