The public health system will move to a paperless system for records.

This was announced today by Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh as he spoke during a ceremony this morning to mark the completion of construction for the new Central Block at the Port of Spain General Hospital.

According to the Minister, the transition process is already underway.

Mr Deyalsingh says the new block will include paediatric and psychiatry wards.

According to the Health Minister, the 540 bed facility has an estimated cost to date of $1.3 billion.

Also speaking was Port of Spain North/St Ann’s West MP Stuart Young, who said the 6.9 earthquake recorded in August 2018 triggered the push to rebuild the Central Block.

Mr Young said he was contacted by Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley immediately after the tremor, as he was concerned about the status of the old Central Block.

He also emphasized the need for maintenance of the new structure, which will fall under the North West Regional Health Authority.