WHO-led initiative boosts Moldova's medical infrastructure
A collaborative effort by the World Health Organization (WHO), the European Union (EU), the United States, and Switzerland culminated in a pivotal delivery on Wednesday, December 20, 2023.
A shipment of critically needed medical equipment, comprising 50 operating tables, 35 operating lights, 50 resuscitation trolleys, and 150 stretchers, arrived in Moldova, poised to revamp the nation's healthcare infrastructure.
The equipment will be strategically dispatched to 53 hospitals across the country, prioritising institutions facing outdated infrastructure, including 34 district hospitals, 16 republican hospitals, and three municipal hospitals.
"For several regions, operating tables haven't been updated in 20 years, forcing critically ill patients to be carried manually down floors," noted Janis Mazeiks, EU Ambassador to Moldova. "In swift response to the Ministry of Health's appeal, we, along with our US and Swiss partners, secured resources to procure this essential equipment."
Kent Logsdon, US Ambassador to Moldova, underscored the multifaceted benefits of the donation: "The WHO's equipment acquisition will enable Moldova to sustain its support for refugees fleeing the Russian war in Ukraine, a majority being women and children. This contribution will also bolster medical care for Moldovan citizens and communities who have generously welcomed thousands of refugees."
Olivier Burki, Deputy Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Moldova, affirmed Switzerland's strengthened commitment: "Switzerland's financial support for Moldova's healthcare sector has intensified since the Ukraine invasion. Working alongside the WHO, Switzerland has actively contributed to empowering specific hospitals by providing them with modern equipment."
Iuliana Garam, WHO program coordinator, expressed optimism about the positive impact: "We are confident that patients of all ages, both Moldovan citizens and Ukrainian refugees, will experience tangible improvements in the modern conditions offered by Moldovan hospitals."
Dr. Ala Nemerenco, Minister of Health, conveyed her ardent support: "I believe any Moldovan surgeon would be thrilled to experience a complete transformation of their operating room, allowing them to utilise new, cutting-edge equipment. We will perseveringly move forward on this path, ensuring our people receive the highest quality healthcare services."
This landmark donation signifies a vital step towards revitalising Moldova's healthcare system, which has grappled with the recent challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and the influx of Ukrainian refugees. The modern equipment will demonstrably enhance the quality of care provided to both Moldovan citizens and refugees, paving the way for a more robust healthcare landscape for all.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
