The Government of Switzerland allocated CHF 50’000 to protect the rights and wellbeing of elderly people. The support includes measures to inform and prevent COVID-19 infection, to prevent violence against elderly and to improve access to health and social protection services. This work is being conducted in collaboration with the Ministries of Health and Social Protection of the Kyrgyz Republic.

Currently, food packages and sanitary items are being distributed by the implementing partners HelpAge International in Kyrgyzstan, PA Resource Center for the Elderly People, ADRA-Kyrgyzstan and PF Babushka Adoption. 

The selection of beneficiaries was done with the support of local authorities and self-help groups for elderly people. It was based on income criteria and health conditions.

Today the Swiss Ambassador Véronique Hulmann participated in a food distribution in Kant. During her visit she highlighted the importance of providing aid to the most vulnerable people and congratulated representatives of the self-help groups for their outstanding commitment. The work of the volunteers who provide support and comfort to vulnerable people and contribute to find solutions to their concerns in all times is crucial. It contributes to enhance solidarity and social justice in the Kyrgyz Republic. She also thanks project partners for their work and commitment.

As part of the project, computer equipment for teleconferences was installed in 5 oblast family medicine centres, 46 rayon family medicine and general medical practice centres, at the Kyrgyz State Medical Institute of Retraining and Professional Development of Bishkek and its 6 oblast branches, the Kyrgyz State Medical Academy, the Electronic Health Care Centre and the Kyrgyz Medical Association.

In addition, the Swiss project purchased server equipment and a license for the platform for videoconferencing and webinars installed at the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic. It unites the Ministry of Health, e-Health Center, academic institutions and professional associations with all regional health facilities into one network.

Establishing links with regions was a timely decision and played a major role in training of medical professionals on COVID-19 issues. Regional healthcare organizations can join the webinar platform and listen to online lectures by specialists from Bishkek. Moreover, this network is used to hold urgent meetings by connecting the republican, oblast and district levels.

The Swiss project introduces distance learning for postgraduate and continuous medical education for doctors, nurses and residents. The project is also focusing on capacity development of the Kyrgyz State Medical Academy, the Kyrgyz State Medical Institute of Retraining and Professional Development and Osh State University. The telecommunication network allowed them to adapt their training programmes for distance learning of students, residents and practicing medical professionals.

The Swiss project "Medical Education Reforms in the Kyrgyz Republic" aims at ensuring quality medical care to the Kyrgyz population provided by well-trained medical personnel.