Island Council meets with the Second Chamber committee for Health, Wellbeing, and Sport (VWS)

On May 4, 2026, Island Governor Jonathan Johnson, Island Council Members Elsa Peterson and Saskia Matthew, and Island Registrar Akilah Levenstone met with members of the Second Chamber’s committee for Health, Wellbeing, and Sport for an introductory discussion.

The meeting formed part of the committee’s broader visit to Saba. It provided an opportunity for the Island Council to outline several issues that continue to affect residents’ access to healthcare. Central to the discussion was the medical referral process, which remains essential for ensuring timely and high-quality care for the island.

Council members highlighted the long waiting times many residents experience before receiving a referral. While some individuals choose to pay out of pocket to avoid delays, this option is not accessible to everyone, creating inequities in the system. The Council also noted that people accompanying patients on medical referrals are not insured, which, if they fall ill, can place additional financial and emotional strain on families.

Concerns were also raised regarding off-island maternity care and services. Expecting mothers from Saba are required to travel abroad to give birth, which can be emotionally and financially challenging. The Council called for improved support, including better guidance, accommodation arrangements, and financial coverage, to ensure that mothers can easily access the necessary care during this time.

Another topic raised was the lack of trust many residents feel toward the healthcare system. The Council emphasized that these challenges are not abstract policy matters but daily realities for the community.

In addition to referrals, the discussion covered dental care, mental health services, the lack of alternative medical insurance, the dysfunctional complaint and feedback system, and the difficulties some patients face when boarding and disembarking Winair flights.

Council Member Elsa Peterson noted that Health and wellbeing are the most important factors in our livelihood. "Living on Saba, we are already behind the clock when it comes to access and time, which is why prevention must be a priority. What we see today is a system that is not yet working equally for everyone, and that reality affects trust and outcomes. Our unique circumstances should not limit us, they should push us to be more flexible, more innovative, and truly people centered. Our community deserves a healthcare system that is accessible, fair, and responsive, and we will continue to advocate for the improvements needed to get us there," stated Peterson.

Council Member Saskia Matthew stated: “Procedures often take precedence over patient needs, with little flexibility or tailor-made solutions for complex cases. We cannot change the reality that we live on a small, remote island, but we can be forward-thinking about how we make services more accessible for the community.”

The exchange was constructive and forward-looking, and both sides expressed commitment to continued dialogue on these and other areas of cooperation.