The Latest "Reform" Has Paralyzed the Healthcare Sector of Armenia: "Joghouty"

"Joghouty" newspaper reports: "The latest "reform" in the healthcare system has paralyzed the healthcare sector of the Republic of Armenia. The Ministry has introduced a protocol through the "Armed" system, under which 470 types of medications will now be provided only with electronic prescriptions.

The national operator of electronic healthcare, "Armed," has announced that 705 pharmacies with 1,200 branches are connected to electronic prescriptions.

In an interview with "Joghouty," pharmacy directors stated that there are required payments to join the "Armed" system, as the service for maintaining the system is paid for organizations providing medical assistance and services. Additionally, pharmacies will need more staff and computers to perform this work.

According to information from "Joghouty," the figures presented by the Minister of Health pose significant risks. Anahit Avanesyan announced that 40,000 prescriptions have already been issued, but the question remains: is 40,000 good or bad?

Anush Poghosyan, director of the NGO "Right to Health," mentioned in an interview with "Joghouty" that this is not a good result. If we examine the statistical data published by the Ministry of Health, the annual doctor visits in Armenia, both inpatient and outpatient, total 12 million. When divided by 12 months and 30 days, it turns out that around 30,000 residents visit a doctor every day. This also includes visits from healthy individuals. Excluding that, approximately 35% of those visiting daily receive prescriptions. This includes the most frequently prescribed medications: antibiotics and antifungals.

Poghosyan added that this should seriously concern the ministry. When we also consider the activation of the black market and the uncontrollable increase in drug prices, everything becomes clear. Medications will become more expensive, and the impact of this will be felt by the average citizen in their consumer basket."