To discuss the coronavirus situation in Armenia, the steps being taken to prevent and overcome the coronavirus, the current opportunities and, in this context, the problems of the healthcare system, President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian today hosted a discussion with Minister of Health Arsen Torosyan; ex-health minister Ara Babloyan; Rector of Yerevan State Medical University, ex-health minister Armen Muradyan and other representatives of the healthcare sector.
The President stated that the main purpose of the meeting was to discuss with healthcare officials and well-known professionals the current state of the pandemic and the future actions, the problems with management of the healthcare system and how the President can help solve those problems and overcome the pandemic.
Touching upon the coronavirus situation, President Sarkissian particularly stated the country is in a dire situation and that the President also has to act as a person who can help and provide support, especially with international ties and potential. President Sarkissian also said it is also important for him to listen to the opinions of professionals.
“If I have tried, and I am trying to provide more support and assistance, I need to have a clear understanding of whom I am helping and how I can help. If I have to call the leader of a country or a medical center, I need to clearly state what Armenia wants. Set the objective and tell me what we want. I can simply assure you that thousands of Armenians, being members of the board of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), are ready to support Armenia, but we need to set the objective by organizing a remote consultation and, if necessary, a visit.
I suggest that we talk as doctors and professionals. I’m not expecting diplomatic statements from any of you. I’m expecting to hear you give a ‘diagnosis’ and say what is good and bad and what we have to do.”
The President attached importance to strategy and stated that the health minister has to speak first since he has to present the strategy of the Ministry of Health and the government. Sarkissian also considered management important and said management has to be correct, timely and in line with the strategy.
The Armenian president said it would be appropriate to grant high state awards to doctors and other healthcare workers on the occasion of Medical Worker Day on June 21 and recommended that the health minister raise the issue in government. “The government needs to appreciate the sons of the nation who have laid their and their families’ lives on the line during this dire situation,” he said, adding that the President’s Staff will also take certain steps in this direction.
