A charity dedicated to fighting cancer in Bermuda said it hopes the Government will introduce a “fast-track” work permit option for healthcare workers.

The Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre told The Royal Gazette that the top item on their wish list for tomorrow’s Throne Speech was faster processing of work permits for healthcare workers when there is a “demonstrable shortage” of Bermudian candidates.

A spokeswoman for the charity said: “As part of the ongoing healthcare reform, there is a dedicated work stream focused on addressing the workforce needs within our healthcare system.

“However, until this comprehensive work is completed, we need to implement immediate measures to ensure that our healthcare services are not compromised.”

The spokeswoman said there was an urgent need for healthcare professionals, stating that the sector was facing significant staffing challenges, which could have an impact on the quality and availability of care for patients.

“By fast-tracking work permits, the sector can quickly bring in skilled professionals to fill essential roles, ensuring that our healthcare facilities are adequately staffed and patients receive the care they need,” the statement continued.

The spokeswoman suggested that the fast-track process should be limited to positions where there is a lack of Bermudian candidates, and that employers should be required to provide evidence of efforts to recruit locally.

“By implementing a fast-track issuance of work permits for healthcare workers, we can ensure that our healthcare system remains robust and capable of providing high-quality care to all members of our community,” the spokeswoman said.

“This measure is crucial to prevent any disadvantage to patients while the broader workforce needs are being addressed through the ongoing healthcare reform.”

Mark Selley, of the Bermuda Healthcare Advocacy Group and the Bermuda Stroke Association, said he hoped to hear about progress on the move to universal healthcare.

“My only wish is that the Government would get on board and do the universal healthcare that’s been delayed for the last four or five years,” he said.

“That’s all I want. This healthcare system is driving people crazy. The people I visit, half of them are sick because they can’t afford to visit a doctor.

“Seniors can have all the coverage they want and they still get stuck with copays they can’t afford. To me, that’s fraud.”