USAID, Ministry Sign Agreement on Primary Health Care Reforms

USAID, Ministry Sign Agreement on Primary Health Care Reforms

February 22, 2008 TIRANA     Today the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Ministry of Health signed a memorandum of understanding to improve primary health care services in Albania. USAID Mission Director, Edward T. Landau and the Minister of Health, Nard Ndoka, formally signed the agreement.  USAID's three year, $5.5 million project, ProShëndetit is providing assistance to improve primary health care services at health centers, upgrade the skills of doctors and nurses, develop a national electronic health information system, and strengthen the insurance and financial management of health facilities.

In his remarks, Landau emphasized the importance of primary health care for the health of citizens living in small, rural communities. "This agreement reiterates the shared commitment of the United States and the Albanian government to ensure that quality health care is available and provided to every woman and child in communities across Albania," said Landau.

At the ceremony, Minister Ndoka expressed his appreciation for U.S. support in health reforms and noted the Ministry's leading role in improving the governance of Albania's health system. Through this program, the Ministry will intensify reform activities conducted at the central and prefecture levels with close support and technical assistance from USAID. 

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