The Armenian government, during its January 23 meeting, approved the signing of a loan agreement with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for the “Healthcare Quality Improvement Program.” The program involves a €45.3 million loan aimed at enhancing multiple aspects of Armenia’s healthcare sector.
The initiative focuses on improving healthcare facilities, digitizing healthcare systems, and developing human capital in the field. Key areas of investment include the construction and modernization of 24 outpatient clinics and polyclinics, digitalization and institutionalization of healthcare service quality assessment, and the implementation of pilot telemedicine programs.
Health Minister Anahit Avanesyan emphasized that the disbursement of the loan will be performance-based and spread over several years. “The funds will be provided annually, contingent upon achieving positive outcomes in key performance indicators. For example, the program targets reducing hospital mortality rates for acute myocardial infarction and improving non-communicable disease monitoring in primary healthcare,” Avanesyan explained.
Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan highlighted the importance of digitizing healthcare records to ensure higher service quality and minimize errors. “A healthcare provider must have digital access to the patient’s medical history, such as previous medications and surgeries. Without this information, the risk of errors increases significantly,” Grigoryan stated.
He also noted that digitization will improve system oversight and efficiency, while the ultimate goal remains better patient care. “Digitization shortens diagnosis and treatment times, reduces experimental approaches, and ensures faster and more accurate care,” Grigoryan added.
The loan also supports the enhancement of e-health tools and the implementation of pilot telemedicine programs, further advancing the modernization of Armenia’s healthcare system. Additionally, the program includes initiatives to improve licensing procedures for medical facilities and train healthcare professionals, strengthening the sector’s human capital.