The archaic X-ray machine at the Telenești District Hospital has been replaced with a state-of-the-art mobile radiology unit and an accompanying printer, thanks to a grant from the Government of Japan. Eight oxygen concentrators were also bought. The grant worth $ 87,700 was offered through the Grassroots Human Security “Kusanone” Program, IPN reports.
Katayama Yoshihiro, Ambassador of Japan to Moldova, congratulated the hospital team that worked to implement the project and expressed his special respect for the hospital staff. The diplomat said that he would like the new equipment to be used in a way that is most efficient for the locals. He also noted that the funds provided by the Government of Japan come from Japanese taxpayers, so he hopes the equipment will be maintained in good order so that its lifetime is maximally extended. The assistance provided is yet another token of friendship from Japan, added the ambassador.
Alexei Bivol, the hospital’s director, noted that the old x-ray machine, in service since 1976, couldn’t offer reliable imaging for the doctors and safe conditions for its operators. The printer bought together with the new unit offers high-quality imaging in just a few seconds, greatly improving medical outcomes.
Ion Prisăcaru, Ministry of Health State Secretary, said that Japan’s assistance has been essential for Moldova and in particular for the health care system in the last 13 years. During this period, most medical establishments in our country have enjoyed support from the Kusanone Program, with each institution receiving grants of about 80-120,000 dollars to procure important equipment. This has strengthened the capacity of health care institutions to offer high-quality medical service, which is particularly important in the context of the ongoing pandemic, added the state secretary.
In Moldova, the Kusanone Program was launched in 2008. By this means, Japan has offered grants totaling 6.3 million US dollars for 73 development projects aimed at improving social welfare and human security. Most projects supported by the Kusanone Program are in the areas of health care and education.
