With an investment of over 185,000 euros, the European Union and UNDP have modernized the radiology and medical imaging laboratory at the Criuleni Health Center. The new imaging machine can not only take chest X-rays, but also bone X-rays, allowing doctors to identify fractures or dislocations. Patients will no longer have to go to other medical institutions for radiology services, IPN reports.

The purchase of a radiology and imaging station, including the renovation works, was made possible with the support of the European Union Confidence Building Measures Program, implemented by UNDP.

“The old microradiography machine, installed in 1987, has not been functional since 2022. During the pandemic it worked maximally, but with great difficulties. We had to contract the services from the district hospital which, due to the high volume of investigations, often deteriorated. With the installation of the new equipment, we will have the opportunity to investigate more population from risk groups from Criuleni and Dubăsari districts,” said Violeta Panico, head of the Criuleni Health Center.

The new X-ray machine is connected to a computer that keeps electronic archive for 1,000 films, as well as a medical film printer. Moreover, individual radiation protection equipment was provided for the laboratory staff.

In addition to the purchase of the new X-ray machine, renovation and refurbishment works were carried out in the laboratory. The electrical, heating and ventilation networks were replaced. The finishing of the radiology cabinet was carried out in accordance with the new sanitary standards. The laboratory was equipped with technologically advanced X-ray resistant furniture.

“There is a huge difference between old and new equipment. Now we work in very good conditions and benefit from modern equipment. The level of radiation is 20 times lower than before, which allows us to diagnose a larger number of patients and significantly reduce the waiting time,” said Dumitru Cara, an imaging doctor at the Criuleni Health Center.

More than 60,000 patients, including from the left bank of the Nistru River, are consulted annually at the health center in Criuleni.

Since 2009, the EU has funded a number of projects to improve the healthcare sector in the region, providing vital equipment and renovating five health centers in the security zone, the hospital in Rezina and the hospital in Criuleni. In addition, exchanges of experience between specialists and health professionals from both banks of Nistru River have strengthened cooperation and improved the capacity of medical staff. In total, on the right bank alone, eight health facilities have been renovated, with investments of over €1 million, benefiting around 40,000 people on both banks.