In 2011 Armenia to pass to “The European model of establishing disability”

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 2, ARMENPRESS: In 2011 Armenia will pass to “The European model of establishing disability” and in connection with it Armenpress talked with the head of the Medical-Social Examination Agency of the Labor and Social Affairs Ministry Misha Vanyan.

- What does “The European model of establishing disability” presuppose?

- With the Poverty Reduction Strategic Program in 2004 it was intended to pass to the “The European model of establishing disability”. As far as it was necessary to carry out certain preparatory work, implement studies, it lasted till 2011. The European model presupposes the definition of the preserved working ability of a person. That is to say, according to the model, the degree of disability will be given according to the degree of working ability. In case the working ability of a person is 50% and more the state will not appoint allowance, in case it is less than 50% a relevant allowance will be appointed. I must say that this model is not common in the EU countries, in different states different approaches are being displayed but the core is the same. It is a quite progressive approach the basis of which is the working ability of a person: he/she feels complete by working, achieves financial independence. If the chief issue is considered the integration of a disable person into the society, the European model gives that opportunity.

- Before passing to the model, what preparatory works are expected to be carried out?

- The works have already kicked off. Familiarizing visits have been paid to Lithuania, Finland, the Czech Republic, where we were acquainted with the models applied there. The preparatory works continue, we are trying to carry them out in all possible ways. We will develop suggestions to clarify the model of which country is more reasonable for us. International experts will be invited to Armenia and study the model functioning here and will help in selection of any European variant.

- The process of passing to the model will be at once or it will be done gradually?

- Of course, it is impossible to pass to the European model at once. There are many handicapped people registered in Armenia and it is impossible to change their status right away. In my opinion, certain passing points will be established so that the new model be applied stage by stage.

- Will the specialists of your establishment pass training? With what institutions will you cooperate agreed with the applying of the new model?

- The training process of specialists of our establishment is of continuative nature. The medical sciences is the direction where you cannot move forward without periodical trainings and without ensuring high-quality services. As to the cooperation with other establishments, the USAID is supporting us in the training issue. As connected with the development of new standards we have serious work to do with the local institutions. I think best specialists of the healthcare system will be involved in the process.