OREANDA-NEWS. January 21, 2013. Implementation of the Healthcare Development Programme through to 2020 and demographic issues were the subjects of discussion.

Healthcare Ministry statistics show that mortality caused by all of the main types of diseases continues to fall, and a steady rise in the birth rate led to a population increase in 2012. Ms Skvortsova also briefed the President on pay rises for medical personnel and upgrading and modernisation work in healthcare institutions.

The meeting also examined the healthcare development programme’s three main components: ensuring supplies of medicines, improving medical education, and pursuing innovative development in the health sector. Also discussed was development of medicine in rural areas, including development of an ambulance system. Ms Skvortsova said that as part of the modernisation programme 119,000 ambulances will be equipped with GLONASS systems, which are especially important in rural areas as they make it possible to consult with specialists at any time of the day or night and begin the correct treatment for patients on the spot, at home or in the ambulance.

Mr Putin noted the need to work particularly on reducing maternal and infant mortality and instructed the Healthcare Ministry to analyse the efforts in the regions in this regard, set priorities, and make the relevant proposals.