Successful Handover of Medical Equipment Enhances Healthcare in Moldova

A significant milestone was achieved for Moldova’s healthcare system on October 1st, 2024, as the Ministry of Health officially received advanced medical equipment at the “Mother and Child Institute” in Chisinau. The day was marked by a heartfelt collaboration aimed at enhancing healthcare services for mothers and children in the region through the provision by JICA of essential medical equipment. The handover ceremony was attended by prominent officials, including Minister of Health Ms. Ala Nemerenco and His Excellency Ambassador Plenipotentiary of Japan to Moldova, YAMADA Yoichiro, representatives of JICA and “Mother and Child Institute”.

The equipment donation was facilitated through a Grant Agreement signed in November 2022 between the Ministry of Health and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), totaling one billion Japanese yen, which is approximately 8 million USD. This agreement is part of the Health System Strengthening Programm aimed at equipping five major public medical institutions which are accepting Ukrainians displaced in Moldova since 2022.

The Mother and Child Institute received a range of modern medical equipment, including:

Ultrasound Diagnostic Equipment (General) – 1 unit
Ultrasound Diagnostic Equipment (Cardiac) – 1 unit
Ultrasound Diagnostic Equipment (Mammography) – 1 unit
Ultrasound Diagnostic Equipment (Transcranial) – 1 unit
Video Gastroscopes for Existing Endoscopic Systems – 4 sets
Video Gastroscopes for Existing Endoscopic Systems – 2 sets
Ventilator for infant, high frequency – 3 units
Options for existing ventilator for infant – 1 set
Anesthetic machine – 2 sets

During the ceremony, Mr. Sergiu Gladun, Director of the “Mother and Child Institute”, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for JICA’s support, highlighting their commitment to enhancing healthcare in Moldova for over a decade. He emphasized the importance of the newly delivered equipment, stating, “The contributions from JICA play a crucial role in strengthening our hospital's capabilities, enabling us to provide high-quality medical services to our patients. We are truly grateful for this partnership, which directly benefits families across our community.”

In addition to the “Mother and Child Institute”, significant contributions were also made to the Oncology Institute and St. Trinity Hospital, including digital X-ray units, hemodialysis machines, and advanced endoscopic equipment. Altogether, these donations will greatly enhance the diagnostic and treatment capacities of Moldova's healthcare facilities.

Minister Ala Nemerenco also expressed her gratitude to JICA and the Government of Japan for their invaluable support. "This partnership marks a new chapter in our efforts to provide high-quality healthcare services to our citizens, directly impacting the lives of many families in Moldova," she stated.

The handover of this vital medical equipment reflects Moldova's ongoing commitment to strengthening its healthcare system, ensuring that medical professionals have the tools they need to deliver exceptional care.

The event showcased the fruitful collaboration between Moldova and Japan, illustrating the importance of international partnerships in advancing healthcare delivery.