Page 12 - HOH

Diaranson, 20 September 2023 AWEMainta
Successful Symposium Celebrating Five
Years of Cardiology Intervention in Aruba
A Tremendous Investment in Medical Care in Aruba with an Eye on the Future
ON Saturday, September 16, a successful cardiology symposium
was held, addressing the topic of cardiovascular intervention in
Aruba with the theme: “5 years of percutaneous coronary inter-
ventions in Aruba, what’s next?” In a packed hall, local and inter-
national speakers discussed various topics, including looking
back on five years of cardiovascular intervention in Aruba and
its results, as well as talking about future opportunities for our
island in this field.
Cardiologist Robert Dennert: “Today, we celebrate that we have
reached our five-year milestone in Aruba, meaning that for the
past five years, we no longer have to send patients abroad but
can treat them right here in Aruba.” This includes immediate
treatment for individuals who have suffered heart attacks or
require stents to open blocked arteries. Not only does this save a
significant amount of money, but, more importantly, patients can
recover closer to home in a familiar environment.
“With the collaboration and guidance of Amsterdam UMC and
Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis (OLVG) Amsterdam, we have realized
a modern cardiovascular intervention complex where, in recent
years, we have even been able to treat patients from our neigh-
boring islands,” according to cardiologist Dennert. During this
symposium, we saw the results of the investment made not only
in the complex itself but also in the knowledge and training of a
tremendous team that makes these operations possible in Aruba.
“My experience with the team in Aruba has been fantastic,”
says Cardiologist Prof. Dr. José Henriques of Amsterdam UMC.
“I believe it’s important to mention that our collaboration has
always been excellent and now, Aruban cardiologists can work at
the same level as their Dutch counterparts, independently. I think
the time has come to think about the next step, such as initiating
treatments like valve replacements or other types of treatment in
collaboration with internists, radiologists, intensivists, or other
specialists. ‘The sky is the limit,’ and I believe that will be the next
step for Aruba.”
According to Dr. Rene van der Schaaf, cardiologist at OLVG
LOCAL NEWS 33
Amsterdam, “We have been working together enthusiastically
from the beginning. The relationship we established at the start
has continued to grow, and we still exchange and share informa-
tion with each other, which is something beautiful.” It’s important
for professional development to continue, and in Aruba, there’s
always a new technique being implemented that has just arrived
at other healthcare facilities. This cardiovascular complex is also
an example of progressiveness and advancement in the world.
Cardiologist Casper Laclé expresses his contentment, saying,
“After many years of effort, we have now arrived at this sustain-
able PCI program in Aruba, and after five years, we can look back
on it as a great achievement thanks to the help of many people.
Maybe I started it, but without the support of many, it wouldn’t
have been possible. Also, at the end of today’s symposium, when
we concluded with a speech by the Hospital’s director, Mr. Jacco
Vroegop, I didn’t expect it and was surprised by the words of
gratitude and the certificate of appreciation that we all received.”
Five years ago, in April, the first cardiovascular interventions
began at Horacio Oduber Hospital. It has been a long journey to
reach this point, but with extremely successful results for medical
care and the Aruban community. This demonstrates how system-
atically HOH continues to invest in more equipment, train our own
professionals, expand services, provide more patient care, and
lower costs for AZV and Aruba. Once again, it has been shown
that the Hospital and Aruba itself can and will continue to inno-
vate and raise the quality of medical care for Aruba!