Ulaanbaatar
UNICEF to provide support in healthcare sector reform
Society
Ulaanbaatar /MONTSAME/. On August 17, Minister of Health received Representative of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Mongolia Alex Heikens to discuss partnership in the healthcare sector.
After congratulating the Minister on his recent appointment and wishing success in his endeavors, Mr. Heikens introduced the measures and initiatives taken by UNICEF so far. In the framework of its operations, a wide range of activities are implemented in protecting children’s health, with consistent services in providing vaccines, medicine, and medical equipment. In aims of reducing the impact of air pollution on the health of mothers and children, the organization has actively worked on coming to the necessary basis, research results, and proof in partnership with international research organizations for the Government to make appropriate decisions on the matter in recent years. He then noted the effectiveness of government measures being taken on prevention of COVID-19 spread as well as efficient communication from the Ministry during this time of risk.
In correlation with the arrival of the cold season, the representative also expressed that it is necessary to ensure winter preparedness and balance healthcare services and reduce the load in all levels by strengthening primary healthcare service.
In turn, Minister of Health T.Munkhsaikhan expressed gratitude for the partnership and investment in ensuring the readiness of healthcare institutions and preventing infection during the pandemic, and informed that a new action plan is currently being developed to prevent local transmission and go through the difficult situation with minimal losses in the case of transmission. He then highlighted that preparatory works are underway to develop a readiness plan on healthcare services as well as to increase the purchase of vaccines for the seasonal flu.
During the meeting, the sides further discussed other works being jointly implemented. Informing about a major reform planned for the sector in decentralization, reduction of waiting time for patients, prevention of diseases, and the establishment of an early detection system, the Minister expressed to actively partner with UNICEF in the area of the matters.
