WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao’s healthcare costs are projected to soar by more than 140% by 2050 as the island’s population continues to age rapidly, according to new research from the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS). 

The study shows that over the past decade, healthcare spending has grown faster than both inflation and government revenue. Curaçao already allocates a relatively large share of its GDP to healthcare — comparable to wealthier countries — despite limited fiscal space. 

Fewer Workers for Every Senior 

The island’s demographic shift is accelerating. By 2050, the share of residents aged 65 and older is expected to nearly double. The old-age dependency ratio — the number of working-age people per person aged 65 or older — will drop from 3.9 to 2.0. 

“This ratio indicates how many working-age individuals are available to support each senior citizen,” explained CBCS researcher Djuwensi Passial. “A declining ratio increases the strain on both the healthcare system and public finances.” 

Demographics and Inflation Driving Costs 

The projections reveal that demographic changes alone will push healthcare costs up by 41–42% by 2050. When price inflation is factored in, the increase exceeds 140%. 

For its analysis, the CBCS used a projection model dividing the population by gender and five-year age groups, incorporating demographic forecasts from the Central Bureau of Statistics and cost data from the Social Insurance Bank. 

Three Key Policy Recommendations 

The report outlines three main strategies to address the looming challenge: 

Attract working-age migrants to expand the contributor base. 

Implement a national prevention strategy focused on early diagnosis, healthy living, and community-based care. 

Broaden the revenue base through fair co-payment mechanisms and a dedicated health levy. 

“The Curaçao healthcare system has reached a tipping point,” the report warns. “Decisive action is needed to ensure high-quality care and equal access for future generations.”