YEREVAN (Noyan Tapan)–UNICEF and WHO will be implementing a jointly developed integrated program of treating children’s diseases in Armenia. An informative meeting was held at the Ministry of Health on October 7 for the purpose of presenting and discussing the main principles of the program. Attending the meeting were pediatricians–public health experts and representatives of concerned organizations.
The integrated strategy of treating children’s diseases is aimed at reducing infant mortality–decreasing the number of cases of diseases and disablement–and improving children’s mental and physical development. This comprehensive program includes measures in the public health sector–families and communities.
The WHO representative to Armenia–Hrair Aslanian pointed out that in 2000-2001 additional funds will be allocated to Armenia for the implementation of the program. The financial assistance is aimed at re-training doctors and providing drugs and information. It was noted that this new approach to the problem has resulted in a considerable reduction of expenses on children’s health protection in 64 countries. In Armenia–the program will be launched in 2000 after being tested in different spheres.