English
Հայերեն
РусскийNews.am recently interviewed Professor Ara Babloyan regarding the newly established "Union of Medical Institutions of Armenia" Public Organization.
• Yesterday, information was published about the establishment of the "Union of Medical Institutions of Armenia" Public Organization. On June 19, the organization held its inaugural meeting, chaired by Professor Ara Babloyan. NEWS.am Medicine aimed to learn more about this new organization, including its origins, the motivation behind its creation, and its objectives.
Professor Babloyan, how did the idea of creating the "Union of Medical Institutions of Armenia" Public Organization come about?
In my view, the Armenian healthcare system has long needed such an organization. However, the idea first emerged during an extended consultation convened by Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan. The meeting was held to present and discuss the comprehensive health insurance program. The minister sought the opinions of those directly involved in providing medical care and services.
During the meeting, while the general response from medical institution heads was positive, various questions and perspectives were raised, leading to a productive and meaningful discussion. It was during this exchange that the concept of forming an organization of medical institutions, drawing on international experience, was proposed. The goal was to create an entity that would actively collaborate with the Ministry to ensure the smooth implementation of this crucial project for our country.
What will be the status of the organization?
Initially, a group of initiators was formed to work on defining the organization's purpose, status, management principles, and statutes. The “Union of Medical Institutions of Armenia” Public Organization was registered following the established procedures. Its primary goal is to “support the development of medical institutions and enhance their operational efficiency to contribute to the advancement of the healthcare system in Armenia and the improvement of public health.”
On June 19, the organization held its inaugural extended session, during which several decisions were made to ensure the efficient operation and collaborative management of the organization.
The information indicated that the organization would have a large, expanded board and a five-member presidency. How was this determined, and on what basis?
First, it’s important to consider that Armenia has approximately 600 medical facilities, with about 21% providing inpatient services and 79% offering outpatient care. Additionally, 164 of these facilities are privately operated. All 600 organizations are eligible to become members of the union.
The organization’s secretariat is currently being established, and once complete, all medical institutions will be invited to join the organization.
The highest governing body of the organization is the General Meeting of its members. To ensure collegial management and representation of medical institutions of varying levels and statuses, the Council was approved with 37 members. From this Council, a five-member Presidency was formed. Each member of the Presidency will serve a one-year term in rotation.
Professor Babloyan, you chaired the first session, but you are not included in the published composition of the presidency. Are you a member of the Council?
I have chosen to serve as an advisor to the organization rather than as a member or president. I find it more meaningful to support and consult with my younger colleagues than to hold a formal leadership position.
Our organizational structure reflects a commitment to the collective good over personal interests. It demonstrates our ability to prioritize the health of the public and work together towards advancing our healthcare system.
What are the organization's current priorities?
Our primary focus is on health insurance, the licensing of specialists, and addressing the list of professions and associated educational reforms.
The challenges are numerous and varied, so we must collaborate closely with the Ministry of Health and various professional associations and healthcare organizations. I am confident that, with joint efforts, we will succeed.
About health
Union of Medical Institutions of Armenia26 June 24
Last news
Professor Christian Braegger Visits Arabkir Medical Center Again
07 June
Professor Christian Braegger recently visited Arabkir Medical Center as part of his ongoing collaboration with the Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Services.
With many years of experience as the Head of the Gastroenterology and Nutrition Service at the University Children’s Hospital in Zurich, Professor Braegger held consultative discussions on complex clinical cases with colleagues from Arabkir, as well as with specialists from other medical institutions.
Under his direct supervision, several endoscopic procedures were performed, including gastroscopy and colonoscopy with multi-stage biopsies. Additionally, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) placements were carried out in children with neurological disorders who face significant challenges with swallowing and nutrition.
During his visit, Professor Braegger also met with Professor Ara Babloyan, Scientific Director of Arabkir Medical Center, to discuss new ideas for future collaboration.
#arabkirmc #gastroenterology #գաստրոէնտերոլոգիա #endoscopy
Caries (Tooth Decay) Awareness Day
04 June
Caries, or tooth decay, is damage to the enamel caused by bacteria and sugary foods. It often starts silently — as tiny, invisible spots — but can quickly turn into black dots and eventually deep cavities. These cavities form a dangerous path to the nerve and root of the tooth, sometimes leading to severe pain or even tooth loss.
Dear parents, please pay special attention to your children's dental health by encouraging a healthy, balanced diet, helping them learn proper and timely brushing habits, and ensuring they visit the dentist regularly. Prevention is always easier and more effective than treatment.
#CariesAwareness #caries #ArabkirMC
17 Years of Collaboration – Professor Saurenmann Visits Arabkir
03 June
Arabkir Medical Center was once again honored to welcome Professor Traudel Saurenmann, our long-time partner in pediatric rheumatology.
With extensive clinical experience in leading hospitals in Zurich and Winterthur, Switzerland, Professor Saurenmann has been collaborating with the Rheumatology Service at Arabkir for the past 17 years, working closely with Dr. Gayane Khloyan, Head of the Service.
During this visit, as in previous ones, the professor consulted on approximately 40 complex pediatric rheumatology cases. She also delivered a lecture focused on focal and systemic scleroderma, enriching both clinical practice and medical education at the center.
Arabkir deeply values this long-standing partnership, which continues to enhance the quality of care for children with rheumatic conditions.
#ԱրաբկիրԲՀ #arabkirmc #ռևմատոլոգիա #rheumatology
Happy Birthday, Ashot Gyulbudaghyan!
02 June
Today we celebrate the 70th anniversary of Ashot Varos Gyulbudaghyan, the esteemed head of one of the cornerstone departments of the Arabkir Medical Center—the Intensive Care and Resuscitation Department.
For decades, Dr. Gyulbudaghyan’s dedicated and tireless work has saved the lives of thousands of children. He is a true professional—one whose compassion and empathy have not only healed young patients but also brought comfort and peace to even the most distressed parents.
Congratulations, dear Ashot Varos!
Your contribution is invaluable and immeasurable—not only to Arabkir Medical Center, but to the entire healthcare system of Armenia. We wish you and your loved ones good health, boundless love, and a life filled with light and warmth.
While the work in intensive care is urgent and demanding, capturing it on camera is a slow and careful process. That’s why we invite you to watch a previously aired feature by the Public TV Company, highlighting a serious case of severe pesticide poisoning in a child.
Watch and listen once again to the words of the distinguished Dr. Ashot Gyulbudaghyan. Dear parents, please remain vigilant when it comes to your children’s health.
International Children’s Day
01 June
Dear children, the dearest treasures of our hearts and lives,
We warmly congratulate you on one of the brightest and most joyful holidays — June 1st, International Children’s Day. This day was first celebrated 75 years ago, in 1950, when many of your grandparents were children. Years from now, you will celebrate this day with your own children and grandchildren, knowing that June 1st is, above all, about rights—your right to live in peace, to grow up healthy and safe, to be educated, to be included, to create, and to live a life full of love and warmth.
Today, we carry the responsibility to protect these rights. Tomorrow, you—as the adults of the future—will continue that mission.
At Arabkir Medical Center, we are proud to be advocates, protectors, and providers of your right to healthcare. Our dedicated team of doctors, nurses, midwives, and other specialists—together with colleagues from Armenia and around the world—work tirelessly for your health, development, recovery, inclusion, and the opportunity to live a full and meaningful life.
Enjoy life in all its colors, dear children. Be healthy and happy in the warmth of your families and friendships. Dream big, turn your dreams into goals, and pursue them with courage and joy.
Wishing you good health, a peaceful sky, and a carefree childhood.
#arabkirmc #ArabkirMC #June1
Emergency Preparedness Exercise
30 May
An alarm sounded, prompting staff and patients to promptly proceed to the designated shelter area — part of a planned emergency preparedness exercise at the Arabkir Medical Center.
The goal of the drill was to raise awareness and strengthen practical skills in responding to emergency situations and civil defense scenarios. The exercise was conducted under the supervision of senior instructors from the Rescue Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, along with a senior specialist from the mobilization department of the Arabkir administrative district.
Their professional evaluation and practical recommendations will play a key role in ensuring that the medical center is well-prepared to take appropriate and effective action in the event of an actual emergency.
