JICA successfully held the second pilot training program for biomedical engineers

From October 16^th to 27^th, 2023, the second pilot training for technical human resources for medical devices took place in Chisinau. More than 60 specialists from public medical institutions from all over the country, and also, as a first, some students from the Technical University of Moldova (UTM), have participated as observers to improve their knowledge and skills in the management of medical devices.

The pilot training organized by JICA in the framework of the project "Strengthening medical device management capacities in the Republic of Moldova", is deemed as an initial activity for the establishment of an official biomedical engineering continuous training program in Moldova. This JICA cooperation helped develop the official Medical Devices Management Guidelines as well and the guidelines were presented during the training.

The high demand for this project was confirmed by JICA through communications with some colleagues of the Moldovan government, which continues its efforts to strengthen and develop a modern healthcare system by procuring and receiving new medical equipment from development partners, including JICA, especially in this critical time. Appropriate use and maintenance of such equipment would be ensured by this program for building the capacities of relevant technical human resources.

The training included relevant sessions which aimed to discuss important topics such as legal framework in the field of medical devices; vigilance in the use of medical devices; planning of medical devices and spare parts; electro safety of medical devices; international experience in the field of medical devices, as well as other key topics in the management and maintenance of medical devices.

At the same time, during the training, all the participants had the opportunity to exchange views and experiences gained from the specialists of the Medical Bioengineering Department of Chisinau Municipal Clinical Hospital "Holy Trinity".

During the closing session, Japanese expert, Mr. Umemiya conveyed his appreciation to all those who contributed to the development of this program and special thanks to the team of trainers, St. Trinity Hospital, and the Ministry of Health for their efforts. The representatives of the Ministry showed their gratitude for JICA and handed over certificates to all participants who completed this training program.

The participants expressed their appreciation to JICA for this opportunity to learn updated information on various medical equipment and emphasized the necessity of this kind of periodical training for the effective use of medical equipment in a sustainable manner. This training is also deemed crucial to incentivize the biomedical engineers in Moldova and prevent the massive exodus of such experts from the country in search of better working conditions in the EU and other countries.