PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ombudsman has launched a systemic investigation into the administrative practices of Social and Health Insurance (SZV), following a complaint involving the suspension of medical treatment abroad, the forced repatriation of an insured person, and the imposition of financial consequences without a formal written administrative decision. The investigation has been launched by the functionally responsible government body, the Minister of VSA. This escalation to the level of the Minister follows SZV's lack of cooperation with the Ombudsman's queries, not only regarding the case but also its laws and policies.
The investigation stems from a complaint about an insured person who was referred abroad for medical treatment. The treatment was reportedly suspended, and the patient was repatriated before the scheduled procedures were completed. SZV indicated that the measure was based on an alleged violation of its Regulation on the Duties, Rights, and Responsibilities of the Insured during Medical Referral Abroad (RDIRA). However, despite repeated requests, no formal written decision outlining the factual basis, legal grounds, or available legal remedies was issued. Following the complaint lodged with the Bureau Ombudsman in December 2025, the Ombudsman formally requested information from SZV, including clarification of the legal basis for its actions and access to alleged evidence that supposedly justified the measures taken. Since that time, SZV's responses have been characterized by significant inconsistencies and procedural barriers.
The Ombudsman notes that under Article 3 of the Landsverordening administratieve rechtspraak (LAR), measures such as suspending medical treatment, repatriating an insured person, or imposing financial obligations constitute administrative decisions that must be issued in writing. The Ombudsman warns that allowing public bodies to impose measures with legal and financial consequences without formal written decisions undermines fundamental principles of good governance and the right of citizens to seek judicial review.
Although the investigation originates from an individual complaint, the Ombudsman notes that the issues raised may indicate broader structural concerns in the administrative practices applied in cases involving medical referrals abroad.
Persons who have experienced similar issues with SZV regarding medical treatment abroad, repatriation, or unresolved administrative decisions are encouraged to contact the Bureau Ombudsman at E.C. Richardson Street 13, by telephone at 542-1243, or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Tax Administration, in collaboration with Community Development, Family & Humanitarian Affairs (CDFHA), is pleased to announce the launch of the annual Senior Tax Assistance Program for the 2025 tax filing period, beginning March 9, 2026. The program offers seniors and pensioners free assistance with completing and submitting their Income Tax Forms and is open to those earning a maximum annual income of Cg. 18,000.
PHILIPSBURG:--- In light of recent public statements and the public concern that has followed, I wish to provide clarity regarding the construction of the new building of the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC).
PHILIPSBURG:--- A new mural has been added to the pay station at Clem Labega Square as part of the @ColorMeSXM project by the Be The Change Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of General Affairs. Since 2020, the initiative has introduced more than 24 murals throughout Philipsburg. The new mural was funded by the Mondriaan Fund, which promotes visual arts and cultural heritage in the Netherlands and the Caribbean part of the Kingdom.
