Armenian healthcare professionals to receive EU-WHO training

PanARMENIAN.Net - The World Health Organization (WHO), with financial support from the European Union (EU), is launching a new initiative in Armenia aimed at developing the skills of the country's healthcare professionals and strengthening its mental health system.

The program is part of a broader project aimed at establishing a resilient healthcare system in five Eastern Partnership countries, according to WHO's office in Armenia.

It is noted that the initiative represents a significant step in EU-WHO cooperation, which is focused on building a more resilient and healthier Armenia.

Armenian Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan emphasized that the "Mental Health Promotion and Improvement Program" includes defining ethical guidelines for professionals, developing clinical protocols, and conducting training on the rights of individuals with mental health conditions. However, she highlighted that the continuous training of healthcare professionals and the creation of favorable working conditions are of paramount importance.

EU Ambassador Vassilis Maragos reaffirmed that the European Union supports improvements in Armenia’s healthcare system, ensuring that investments yield long-term positive effects.

WHO Representative in Armenia, Dr. Siddhartha Datta, added that "With EU funding, WHO is supporting Armenia in strengthening healthcare workers’ capacities and mental health services, fostering a more resilient healthcare system capable of addressing challenges."

The new initiative prioritizes the following areas:

• Enhancing engagement and long-term participation of healthcare professionals by improving working conditions,
• Improving the quality of medical and nursing education to align with national healthcare needs,
• Implementing evidence-based workforce planning to ensure the sustainable development of the healthcare system.

Armenia’s mental health sector still faces multiple challenges. Stigma and limited access to institutionalized care hinder the provision of high-quality, rights-based services.

Through this program, WHO and the EU aim to:

• Strengthen governance and service delivery in the mental health sector,
• Train healthcare professionals to promote a rights-based, person-centered approach,
• Reduce stigma and discrimination through public awareness campaigns,
• Expand community-based mental health services and promote mental well-being, including through artistic initiatives.

EU and WHO joint programs support the resilience of healthcare systems, crucial for better crisis response. Their partnership also focuses on universal health coverage and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

With this program's launch, Armenia takes another step toward a strong, sustainable, and inclusive healthcare system that supports healthcare workers and ensures accessible, high-quality mental health services.