WILLEMSTAD – The number of incidents involving verbal aggression and even death threats against hospital staff is on the rise, according to Johan de Graaf, director of the Curaçao Medical Center (CMC). Speaking on the podcast 3 or ku Gino of the morning paper Extra, De Graaf described the situation as “painful,” noting that personnel who dedicate themselves to patient care are increasingly confronted with hostility in the workplace.

The hospital director acknowledged that emotions can sometimes run high among patients and their families, but stressed that threats cross the line. “Our staff should never feel unsafe while doing their jobs,” he said.

De Graaf also pointed out that social media has made the situation worse, with names of staff members sometimes being published online, leaving them vulnerable outside the hospital environment.

In response, the CMC has stepped up internal security measures and is encouraging staff to file official police reports when they experience aggression or intimidation.

Hospital officials emphasized that patient frustrations should be addressed through proper channels but warned that continued threats could not only endanger staff safety but also harm the overall functioning of Curaçao’s healthcare system.