The Minister, who was undergoing treatment in Martinique, recently came under fire as detractors claimed the Saint Lucia government paid her fees.
The Minister, making her first outing after her surgery, explains that her private medical insurance covered her treatment. Contrary to public belief, she says, the government did not pay for her medicals.
“Contrary to what some people are speculating, my health care, I have been a member of the Teachers Union from 1971 and one of the things that I helped the Union put together is a medical scheme for teachers and up to a day like today. I'm still a member of the Teachers Union and part of this insurance scheme. So in the event that I seek, like I seek here, that my insurance will contribute to my medical care,” the Minister said.
The Minister disclosed that she suffered a heart attack due to a clogged artery. Following her surgery, she says her recovery is going well.
“The doctor did look at the heart. He said the heart is in good condition. However, he found that there was one artery that was blocked; there was no open heart surgery. There were a lot of rumours going on about my health, but I need to tell you that that's not the truth,” Dr Poyotte said.
The Minister encourages citizens to set money aside in the event of a medical emergency. She says personal responsibility is crucial in healthcare.
“It is always wise to put a little something on a side in terms of your insurance for in case you fall sick because sometimes you may not have the resources to help you move quickly to get medical attention.”
The Minister adds that the government of Saint Lucia is working to ensure healthcare is affordable for all citizens.
“When the government talks about a 2.5% towards healthcare, we must not complain about that because the government will need the resources to help, especially those who do not have the resources at least to save some lives.”
Dr Poyotte is on holiday until she recovers well enough to resume her post. Until then, Hon. Jeremiah Norbert is Acting Home Affairs Minister.