September 4, 2024 (PAHO) — In a landmark event, the Pan American Health Organization, Regional Office for the Americas of the World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) in Trinidad and Tobago proudly handed over a fleet of 8 state-of-the-art health service robots to the Ministry of Health, signaling a new era in healthcare delivery for the nation. The fleet includes 2 disinfecting and 6 humanoid mobile healthcare robots which were procured for use in the local public health sector in Trinidad and Tobago.
The procurement of the Health Service Robots was facilitated by the India-United Nations Development Partnership Fund which is managed by the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC). This Fund committed USD 1 million to bolster the Trinidad and Tobago’s COVID-19 response and provides financial support for the "Bringing High and Low Technology (HALT) to COVID-19,” a collaborative effort involving the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, represented by the Ministry of Health, the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office and PAHO/WHO, which manages the local implementation of this initiative.
The official handover ceremony, which was attended by government officials and other key stakeholders, highlighted the significance of this groundbreaking initiative. The event began with a captivating moment as one of the robots made its way to the front of the room to welcome the assembled guests. In a symbolic gesture, the robot approached the Honourable Terrence Deyalsingh, Minister of Health, Trinidad and Tobago and requested a handshake, setting the tone for the integration of advanced technology into the nation's healthcare system.
The ceremony featured addresses from several distinguished speakers, including, the Honourable Terrence Deyalsingh, Minister of Health, His Excellency Dr. Pradeep Singh Rajpurohit, High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Professor Prakash Persad, President of the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), and Dr. Gabriel Vivas Francesconi, PAHO/WHO Representative for Trinidad and Tobago and the Dutch Caribbean Islands. The presence of Ms. Joanna Kazana, UN Resident Coordinator for Trinidad and Tobago and Ms. Dhanique Jerry, Technical Advisor, Division of Health, Wellness and Social Protection, Tobago House of Assembly (THA) emphasized the broad-reaching impact of the project.
His Excellency Dr. Pradeep Singh Rajpurohit reaffirmed India’s dedication to advancing innovative solutions that improve public health outcomes and highlighted additional projects being undertaken in partnership with the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.
Professor Prakash Persad, discussed UTT’s critical role in the initiative and the exciting opportunities that this will bring to the academic community, paving the way for future advancements in healthcare technology. One of the humanoid robots will be allocated to the University which will provide technical support and engage in research and development activities, providing a vital resource for pioneering advances in healthcare technology.
Dr Vivas spoke about the collaborative approach that has been the hallmark of this initiative. He outlined the steps taken to reach this milestone and the valuable input from staff on the ground, which has been instrumental in tailoring the robots' functions to the specific needs of the country's healthcare system. He also announced that training for healthcare workers on the use of the robots had already commenced, ensuring that the benefits of this technology will be realized quickly and effectively. Click on the link below to see a brief video of his remarks .
The Honourable Terrence Deyalsingh, Minister of Health, delivered an engaging feature address, underscoring the Ministry’s commitment to delivering optimum care to the population. He elaborated on the integration of advanced technology and artificial intelligence into healthcare, emphasizing their role in enhancing and supporting the efforts of healthcare professionals.
Following the presentations, attendees were treated to a live demonstration of the robots, in action, by Dr Nadine Sangster and Mr Ronnie Bickramdass, both of the University of Trinidad and Tobago. Spread across the room, the robots engaged directly with guests, showcasing their capabilities. The interactive demonstration provided a glimpse into how these robots will revolutionize healthcare delivery in the country.
This handover marks a significant step forward in the modernization of the country’s healthcare system. These health service robots will play a crucial role in enhancing patient care and supporting healthcare workers across the nation. As the robots begin their integration into the healthcare system, PAHO/WHO remains committed to supporting the Ministry of Health in ensuring that this innovative technology is used to its fullest potential, supporting national digital transformation efforts and ultimately improving the lives of the Trinidad and Tobago population.
