WHO Chief Praises Healthcare Reforms in Uzbekistan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Minister of Health of Uzbekistan Asilbek Khudayarov held talks with World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, during which the parties discussed the current state of cooperation and future areas of collaboration.

During the meeting, it was noted that Uzbekistan has been a member of the WHO since 1992, while the organization’s representative office has been operating in the country since 1993. Cooperation between the Ministry of Health and the WHO has been steadily expanding and now covers a wide range of areas related to healthcare modernization and the improvement of medical services.

The role of the WHO in strengthening epidemiological surveillance was particularly emphasized, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. Joint projects are also being implemented in the prevention of infectious and non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health protection, and the professional development of medical personnel.

The two sides continue cooperation in introducing digital technologies in healthcare, improving emergency medical services, and developing primary healthcare systems. A five-year cooperation programme between the Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan and the WHO Regional Office for Europe for 2025–2030 is currently being implemented. In addition, a regional roadmap for health and well-being in Central Asia for 2026–2030 is under consideration.

This partnership is aimed at strengthening the resilience of the national healthcare system and aligning the quality of medical services with international standards.

The WHO Director-General highly praised the results of ongoing healthcare reforms in Uzbekistan and their practical implementation. In particular, he noted the expansion of primary healthcare coverage, the introduction of screening and preventive programmes, the development of patronage services at the mahalla level, the digitalization of the sector, and the establishment of a Digital Health Center.

Improvements in the qualification of medical personnel, decentralization of specialized care, and the introduction of modern hospital management methods were also highlighted. A positive trend in reducing maternal and child mortality rates was separately emphasized.

Following the meeting, the sides discussed additional areas of cooperation and reached agreements on further strengthening joint work.