WHO concluded “Bridge 5 to Health” project in 5 conflict-affected regions

The UN CERF-funded project was implemented by WHO Azerbaijan in partnership with the Ministry of Health, the State Agency on Mandatory Health Insurance, and TABIB. 

During 3 months, the mobile teams provided consultations to nearly 3 thousand people, 75% of whom were women and children, highlighting a higher need for care among these population groups. Healthcare workers in the area were provided with practical, hands-on training sessions on mental health, basic pediatric care and surveillance. Essential medicines, and medical equipment were procured for the 5 district hospitals and primary healthcare centers. It included 10 autoclaves, 10 oxygen concentrators, 480 boxes of antigen tests, 38 types of equipment, and 101 types of medicines. A variety of materials were also distributed including advice for the public on protective measures and the proper use of masks.

“The conflict increased the burden on the already strained health system in the area. Access to essential health services is a major challenge in the conflict-affected regions, especially in remote villages. We believe this project made a difference in people’s lives by providing these services free of charge to the people who are unable to access them and also by shining a light on the importance of this issue. We are now actively searching for partnerships to be able to continue our work here”, – Dr. Hande Harmanci, WHO Representative to Azerbaijan stated in the closing ceremony.

At the end of the project, certificates were presented to the doctors and psychologists of the mobile teams involved in the project.