The Institute of Emergency Medicine has been equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, furniture, and supplies worth over 2 million lei, presented on Friday at an official ceremony. These donations were made by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), with financial support from the United States and the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations, as part of a broader effort to improve medical services and support women and vulnerable groups, especially in the context of the influx of refugees from Ukraine.

"Recently, we have witnessed a comprehensive process of modernizing the healthcare system, and I am pleased that UNFPA can join these efforts of the Government and the Ministry of Health to support medical institutions at all levels, especially those departments that assist women in the Republic of Moldova. We do this because we are the agency that advocates for the respect of sexual and reproductive rights and for access to the best services," stated UNFPA Moldova Deputy Representative, Natalia Plugaru.

"The issue of violence against women is a sensitive one, and our country has taken on the responsibility to combat this phenomenon. In this context, the new equipment represents valuable support for improving the quality of care provided. I encourage doctors to make the most of these resources, so that they can offer patients the support and safety they need," said Vadim Aftene, Head of the General Directorate of Policies in Integrated Medical Services at the Ministry of Health.

Key interventions at the Institute of Emergency Medicine were carried out between 2023 and 2024, including the establishment of a unit for survivors of gender-based violence, including sexual violence, the modernization of the gynecology department, and the strengthening of the blood transfusion department's capacities.

In the Assistance Unit for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence, patients receive immediate medical and psychological assistance, as well as medico-legal support. The unit provides a safe and private space for gynecological examinations and psychological support, including for individuals with special needs.

Additionally, in the gynecology department, the operating room, the intensive care unit for women, a minor gynecological intervention room, and the ultrasound room have been modernized.

The blood transfusion department has been renovated and equipped with specialized chairs for blood collection, blood storage equipment, rapid plasma thawing devices, and other necessary equipment.

"We are grateful to everyone who contributed to equipping our institution, especially the United Nations Population Fund and its partners. This equipment will primarily serve our women, who need to feel safe and deserve high-quality medical services," noted Diana Manea, Director of the Institute of Emergency Medicine.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Health and other partners, UNFPA continues its commitment to strengthening the resilience of Moldova’s healthcare system. Amid the largest refugee influx in Moldova’s history, as people flee the war in Ukraine, this support is vital to ensure the health and safety of women and girls who require emergency obstetric, neonatal, and gynecological services. UNFPA’s response focuses on providing comprehensive and integrated assistance, addressing the identified needs of both refugees and host communities.