VIVACELL-MTS, BIRTHLINK TO REEQUIP MATERNITY DEPARTMENTS IN YEREVAN

PanARMENIAN.Net
15.09.2009 15:18 GMT+04:00

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ VivaCell-MS joins hands with BirthLink in reequipping
maternity departments in Yerevan.

At the press conference held on September 15 at Yerevan State Medical
University presided by VivaCell-MTS General Manager Ralph Yirikian,
Director of BirthLink NGO Kathy Mellor and the Senior Neonatologist
of Armenia Hrant Kalenterian, the medical community of the republic
was introduced to a new large-scale neonatal care project that will
significantly reduce infant mortality in Armenia.

More than 4 million babies in the world die annually in their first
year of life. Not only do a staggering 98% of these deaths occur
in developing countries, but 65% of these deaths occur in the first
month of life, with more than two-thirds happening in the first week,
and of these babies, more than 50% die in the first 24 hours.

Based on WHO statistics, Armenia’s infant mortality rate is more than
four times higher than in countries like the US and UK.

"Being aware of how vulnerable a newborn is and the high and
sophisticated level of care it needs, VivaCell-MTS couldn’t just
watch. This project is yet another commitment in line with our
Corporate Responsibility belief that we are turning into practice. It
is all because we care," stated VivaCell-MTS General Manager Ralph
Yirikian.

With good facilities and equipment, complemented by a program of
continuing education and a sound medical knowledge, many of these
deaths are preventable.

Kathy Mellor, BirthLink’s Director and founder said: "Our main
objective, in undertaking this project, is to reduce neonatal
mortality over the next five years, in line with the UN Millennium
Goals. Through the provision of essential equipment, specifically
targeting the immediate period after birth, when babies are most
vulnerable, and continued support to neonatal departments in Armenia,
we hope we can have an impact on survival for sick and vulnerable
newborn babies. And t and funding by VivaCell-MTS."

With more than 40% of births in Armenia taking place in Yerevan,
this project is supporting ten maternity departments in the city,
as well as one Children’s hospital, which receive sick newborns. A
total of 101 pieces of essential equipment that can support vulnerable
newborn babies were distributed to hospitals including incubators,
respiratory support, monitors and other essential supplies for
delivering safe and appropriate care.

The press conference will be followed by a series of training sessions
for medical personnel from target medical facilities in use of medical
equipment. Also there will be follow up visits by the professional
medical team to give ongoing support, VivaCell press office reported.