Georgian Health Minister, Secretary General of Int’l Federation of Otorhinolaryngological Societies discuss healthcare reforms

Georgian Health Minister Mikheil Sarjveladze and Milan Profant, Secretary General of the International Federation of Otorhinolaryngological Societies, on Friday discussed healthcare reforms and cooperation in the field of otorhinolaryngology.

The Ministry of Health said Sarjveladze briefed Profant on ongoing reforms in Georgia's healthcare system, as well as recent developments in ear, nose and throat (ENT) medicine. The meeting focused on prospects for advancing the specialty, sharing international experience, and expanding cooperation.

The sides also discussed the expansion of Georgia's Universal Healthcare Program to include bilateral cochlear implantation for children under the age of four. Officials noted that the addition of the new component is expected to significantly improve speech development, social integration and overall quality of life for children with severe hearing impairment, as early restoration of hearing is considered particularly important.

At the same time, the programme will continue to finance unilateral cochlear implantation for patients of all ages who meet the relevant medical criteria.

Sarjveladze said cooperation with the International Federation of Otorhinolaryngological Societies will contribute to the further development of the field in Georgia and help ensure even higher-quality medical services for patients.