Expired Medications Found in Mental Health Centers: Human Rights Defender

The management and use of medications in Armenia's mental health centers is extremely concerning. This was stated today during a press conference by the Human Rights Defender of Armenia, Arman Tatoyan.

According to him, some centers have been using medications that have been banned since 2020 by an order from the Minister of Health. “Expired medications were found in the centers of Sevan and Vardenis. There have also been instances where medical supplies and instruments expired for quite a long time, even up to two years,” said Tatoyan.

According to the Human Rights Defender, a mixture of medications is being used in most centers without clarifying their compatibility. Furthermore, therapy sessions with psychiatrists are not properly conducted.

Tatoyan noted that it is commendable that in 2021, a department for minors was opened at the Avan Mental Health Center, where 12 minors can receive inpatient treatment. However, there are no centers for minors with issues living in the regions, necessitating the transfer of these children to Yerevan.