Old criminal convictions can haunt residents later in life when the need arises to travel overseas for “urgent or life-saving medical care”, MPs heard.

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, told the House of Assembly: “While Bermuda provides high-quality healthcare locally, certain specialised treatments, including advanced cancer care, cardiac interventions, organ transplantation and complex surgeries often require referral to specialist institutions overseas.

“When an individual is prohibited from entering the country where that treatment is available because of a past criminal conviction, the consequences can be profound and may directly affect their health, wellbeing and quality of life.”

She reminded the community that entry to a foreign country was a privilege governed by law — citing the policy of the United States, Bermuda’s closest neighbour, to refuse entry, sometimes permanently, for drug and other criminal offences.

She added that requesting a travel waiver could be a lengthy discretionary process. Although it could be “expedited in exceptional circumstances”, it could not be relied upon for urgent or emergency medical travel.

Ms Wilson said the travel restrictions, commonly known as stop lists, could also have grave consequences for loved ones hoping to accompany a patient overseas for treatment.

She added: “For many patients, particularly children, the elderly or those facing serious illness, the presence of a trusted family member provides essential emotional support, assists with medical decision-making and helps navigate complex healthcare systems.”

Ms Wilson said: “This issue serves as a powerful reminder that the choices we make today can have consequences that extend far beyond the immediate moment.”

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• To read the minister’s statement in full, see Related Media