Burnout among healthcare professionals is a critical issue, and during situations such as emergencies, this problem can become even more pronounced. As a frontline workers during crisis, they not only treat the physical injuries of patients but also borne the brunt of psychological trauma themselves.
Recognizing the immense psychological and emotional toll on healthcare professionals from Karabakh region, the Council of Europe, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the National Institute of Health, has designed a series of activities focusing on the provision of essential mental health support and fostering overall recovery as part of its comprehensive response package to the refugee influx in Armenia, and to support the Government of Armenia in its efforts to integrate healthcare professionals from Karabakh region into the healthcare system in Armenia.
On 27-28 July 2024, around 35 healthcare professionals have participated in the two-days capacity building session on the improvement of patients’ interactions and patient-centered communication.
The opening remarks were delivered by Meri Katvalyan, Senior Project Officer of the Project “Protection of Human Rights in Biomedicine” and Karen Baziyan, Adviser to the Director of the National Institute of Health of the Republic of Armenia. Both sides highlighted the importance of these capacity-building sessions in terms of contributing to the social integration process of healthcare professionals from the Karabakh region into the healthcare system in Armenia.
The event was designed in a way to provide healthcare professionals with skills to manage their own mental health and to effectively support their colleagues and patients. International and local consultants of the Council of Europe discussed with healthcare professionals the patient-centered communication and effective self-presentation, public image of medical workers, as well as the specifics of effective public debates on health issues.
By aiming to provide healthcare professionals with essential knowledge and skills, the capacity building initiative also enhanced their professional network, thereby aiding their social integration.
The capacity building event was organised by the Council of Europe as part of its Project on “Protection of Human Rights in Biomedicine II” implemented within the Council of Europe Action Plan for Armenia 2023-2026.
