Rahael searches for new women’s hospital site

Health Minister John Rahael visited a few sites yesterday at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC) which are proposed for the relocation of Mt Hope Women’s Hospital. Among them is the former site of the Colleges of Sciences, Technology and Applied Arts of TT (COSTAATT). In a telephone interview yesterday, Rahael said an analysis will be done of which place would be most suitable with respect to convenience, flow of operations and bringing the Maternity Hospital up to international standards. He said a decision on the site will be made next year following a presentation by NWRHA senior vice-president of Health Services, Cynthia Carrington-Murray, on January 12.

Accompanying Rahael on the tour was Jean Picchiottino, of Thales E and C who was with the original company that built EWMSC. His input was solicited because “they are aware of the structure and integrity of the building.” Rahael said neonatologist Dr Petronella Manning-Alleyne has also toured and gave the Ministry “certain recommendations” regarding what needed to be done. He said the Ministry wanted to be certain that the right location is selected. In a report submitted to the Health Ministry, the Pan American Health Organisation advised the Ministry to refurbish or relocate the women’s hospital.