PHILIPSBURG--The Electronic Health Authorization System (EHAS) project is slated to end March 2023, says Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor VSA Omar Ottley.
The project was an initiative of the Ministry of VSA to reopen the economy during the pandemic. “Not knowing the extent of COVID-19 and its impact on the nation, the project was requested to have a lifespan of two years and possible extension for an additional year,” Ottley said in a press release on Thursday.
The minister thanked all those who were involved in the project, especially the admins and nurses that worked tirelessly to ensure a successful outcome. “St. Maarten is now in the endemic nature and after a thorough assessment, COVID screening will be removed from the airport,” he added.
The minister also reiterated that as of October 15, COVID-19 insurance will no longer be mandatory for travellers into St. Maarten. “We would like for this to be optional for our travellers,” said Ottley.
Also as of October 15, residents of St. Maarten will no longer be required to test upon entry, regardless of their vaccination status. However, they will still be required to fill out the EHAS application for data purposes.
