Electronic Prescriptions Take 1-3 Minutes to Issue, Says Avanesyan

During the sitting of the National Assembly's Standing Committee on Health Care, the report on the progress and results of the government program for 2023 was discussed.

Health Minister Anahit Avanesyan informed that the policy aimed at increasing the accessibility of medical assistance and services has continued, addressing not only physical but also financial aspects, as well as providing accessible medical assistance according to quality and modern standards.

According to the government program, 46 measures were implemented throughout 2023, of which 42 were fully realized, while 4 were partially completed. These 4 measures relate to the insurance package. There is a delay in deadlines here, as the reform of comprehensive insurance is a crucial, fundamental, and principle-based change that necessitates more detailed discussions. This process is expected to be completed this year.

In 2023, the volumes of hospital medical assistance and services under the state order have increased significantly, providing 861,845 services, which is an increase of 74,981 services compared to last year.

More surgical and non-surgical medical assistance services for patients with malignant tumors have increased by 50,000, which represents a 1.5% increase from the previous year’s figures. Screening programs have also continued.

In terms of medical assistance for cardiovascular diseases, there has been an increase in service volume by 42,000, with new services being included. There has been a 10% decrease in mortality cases compared to the previous year in 2023.

Minister Anahit Avanesyan noted that the overall volume of transplants has increased and that target objectives have been achieved. “Our goal is to make treatment services for tumors as accessible as possible in Armenia and to minimize cases where treatment must be carried out in other countries,” she stated.

It was also mentioned that good indicators have been recorded in the area of maternal and child health, particularly regarding the decrease in maternal mortality rates. A reduction in stillbirth rates has also been documented. However, no improvements have been reported in child mortality rates, which indicates the need for evaluation and identification of causes; additional measures are required in this direction.

The minister presented information regarding the construction, reconstruction, and building activities of medical centers and hospitals in the republic. Steps taken in the field of drug accessibility were also presented. It was noted that measures against infectious diseases have continued, and initiatives aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle have been expanded.

The sector’s responsible official also addressed the work done in electronic health care and the development of human resources. During the Q&A session, issues such as drug accessibility, the organization of procurement processes in the field, evaluating causes of child mortality, mechanisms for facilitating drug imports, the effectiveness of primary health care operations, the feasibility of transitioning to electronic prescriptions, and other problems were discussed.

According to the minister, it has been experimentally determined that issuing a paper prescription takes 10-12 minutes, while the electronic version takes 1-3 minutes, depending on the computer skills of the specialist. She noted that digitization helps reduce working time and ensures more accurate data.

Anahit Avanesyan highlighted that a bonus salary system for family doctors, pediatricians, and therapists started in 2023, significantly increasing their salaries.

The report was accepted for consideration.