Ensuring continuity of medical care, especially for children with chronic diseases after the age of 18y.o., is one of the important challenges of healthcare. The work carried out in this direction in the field of gastroenterology in Armenia is ongoing, due to the joining of the Pediatric Gastroenterology service of «Arabkir» MC - ICAH to the «Health Care Transition» Campaign launched by ESPAGHAN (European Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition) since October 2025. Let us recall that in October 2025, the Pediatric Gastroenterology Section was established under the Armenian Pediatric Association, which unites 17 pediatric gastroenterologists, endoscopists and hepatologists of the republic. In December 2025, the Pediatric Gastroenterology Section of the Armenian Pediatric Association organized the first meeting of gastroenterologists from the four pediatric and five adult tertiary care Medical Centers at the «Arabkir» MC - ICAH, during which the professional resources of the ESPGHAN above-mentioned campaign, translated into Armenian, were presented, discussed, and disseminated. The «Health Care Transition» Campaign launched by ESPGHAN continued in February and March of 2026. One of the key achievements of the Campaign is the cooperation that has begun between pediatric and adult gastroenterologists. In February and March, the presentations, discussions, and dissemination of ESPGHAN resources (in printed and electronic versions) continued in the gastroenterology departments of various medical centers and clinics in Yerevan, involving a wider professional network (about 55 people).Currently, the Campaign in Armenia faces certain objective difficulties, as the dispensary (follow-up) care / medical supervision of adult patients with chronic gatroenterological and hepatological diseases still needs to be regulated. The activity, interest and numerous positive responses and feedback from doctors prove that the «Health Care Transition» Campaign in Armenia is relevant and needs further development.

The 4th Annual Conference on Clinical Neurology, named after Edgar Hovsepyan, will bring together neurologists, neurosurgeons, and leading specialists in the fields of anesthesiology and radiology from different countries in Yerevan, Armenia. A number of important topics will be discussed during the conference, including: Modern approaches to the treatment of Epilepsy Clinical and diagnostic perspectives The role of Electroencephalography in the diagnosis of epilepsy Therapeutic advances Challenges in identifying epileptic foci in the preoperative period Determining the appropriate time to discontinue drug therapy in the postoperative periodAdditional issues related to the conference topic will also be addressed.CME credits will be awarded to participants. The participation fee is 25,000 AMD. Registration will open soon. The conference will take place on May 21–22, 2026, from 08:30 to 18:00, in the “Tushpa” Hall of the Holiday Inn Yerevan - Republic Square. Arabkir Medical Center — A Reliable Partner in Health

World Health Day is dedicated to raising awareness of the most important global health issues and uniting efforts to address them. In 2026, the day is marked under the theme: “Together for health. Stand with science”. On April 7, 1948, the World Health Organization (WHO) was founded. Two years later, in 1950, April 7 was officially declared World Health Day in honor of the establishment of the WHO. It should be noted that Armenia has been a member of the WHO since 1994. In 2024, Arabkir Medical Center – Institute of Child and Adolescent Health was granted the status of a WHO Collaborating Centre. This status is mainly awarded to research institutes, universities, and academic departments that work with the WHO in various areas of the health sector. Arabkir Medical Center: A Reliable Partner in Health

An international conference dedicated to neuromuscular diseases was held in Tbilisi. The conference addressed approaches to the management of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Spinal muscular atrophy, as well as modern treatment options. Neurologists from Armenia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Romania, Kazakhstan, and Russia participated in the conference. Biayna Sukhudyan, Head of the Neurology and Epileptology Service at Arabkir Medical Center, delivered a presentation on the genetic basis and mechanisms underlying spinal muscular atrophy. International exchange of experience and professional cooperation are of great importance for the development of the field and for improving the effectiveness of treatment. Arabkir Medical Center – A Reliable Partner in Health

Meri Marandyan, pediatrician at Arabkir Medical Center, spoke about the causes, types, symptoms, and other aspects of pneumonia during the "Eghir Aroghj (Be Healthy)" project of the Public TV company of Armenia.Arabkir Medical Center: A Reliable Partner in Health

Since January 1, 2026, more than 1.5 million people have become beneficiaries of universal health insurance. With the introduction of the new system, many citizens contact us with questions. Frequently asked questions are answered by Sona Hovhannisyan, Head of the Economic Service at Arabkir Medical Center.Can we receive medical care at Arabkir Medical Center within the framework of universal health insurance? Yes, you can. Arabkir Medical Center provides insured persons with both hospital services—including planned and emergency medical care and treatment, surgeries—as well as outpatient services, such as specialized consultations and laboratory and instrumental examinations. Where should I apply first to receive medical care within the framework of the program? The procedure is as follows: To receive services on a planned basis, it is necessary to apply to a primary health care unit (polyclinic) and obtain an appropriate referral. After that, the patient should visit the medical center in order to receive the service specified in the referral. In emergency cases, patients should apply directly to the hospital. Does the insurance program cover children? Yes. Universal health insurance covers RA citizens and residents in the following groups: Children under 18 years of age Persons aged 18–23 who have been left without parental care Persons under 26 years of age studying in full-time programs who have been left without parental care What should be done if the status of a universal health insurance beneficiary is not reflected in the ArMed system due to the absence of RA citizenship data? In such cases, it is recommended to contact the Universal Health Insurance Fund by calling the short number 8866 or by sending an email to [email protected]. The request should include the applicant’s signature and ID document, as well as the name, surname, patronymic, and date of birth. What specialized consultations are available within the framework of universal health insurance? Within the framework of universal health insurance, the following specialized consultations are available (for both children and adults): Neurologist Neurosurgeon, Allergist, Gastroenterologist, Rheumatologist, Orthopedist, Nephrologist, Urologist, General surgeon, Ophthalmologist, General Practitioner, Dermatologist Gynecologist, ENT specialist Pulmonologist Does the insurance also apply to children under dispensary supervision? Yes. Professional consultations, as well as the necessary laboratory and instrumental examinations provided to children under dispensary supervision, are also available within the framework of universal health insurance.

Almost all children with Diabetes use Continuous Glucose Monitoring systems.When the system records an increase in the child’s blood glucose level, parents try to understand the reasons, respond appropriately, and control the situation. Lusine Navasardyan, endocrinologist at Arabkir Medical Center, addresses this topic. Arabkir Medical Center: A Reliable Partner in Health

During the “Radio-aroghjaran” program, Tanya Aramyan, nephrologist at Arabkir Medical Center, discussed key points on the prevention and treatment of kidney diseases. She answered questions about common kidney problems, their prevalence, typical symptoms, prevention principles, and recent developments in the field.“From the point of view of treatment, it is always more effective to detect and treat kidney problems early. However, when kidney diseases are diagnosed late and lead to chronic kidney failure, this should not be considered a verdict. There are next steps — hemodialysis and kidney transplantation — after which patients can achieve a better quality of life,” notes Tanya Aramyan. Arabkir Medical Center: A Reliable Partner in Health

Christa Relli, an infectious disease specialist at University Children’s Hospital Zurich, and Martina Hug, a general and developmental pediatrician, visited Armenia as part of the Arabkir MC–University Children’s Hospital Zurich cooperation program. This fruitful collaboration has existed for more than three decades.The program facilitates an exchange of experience: Arabkir MC not only hosts leading specialists from Zurich, but many Armenian doctors have also undergone training at the Swiss Children’s University Hospital. The visit of European doctors provides Armenian specialists with the opportunity to learn from European experience, strengthens international medical ties, introduces innovative approaches, and improves the quality of medical services in Armenia. Arabkir Medical Center: A Reliable Partner in Health

Today, many countries around the world celebrate International Nephrologists’ Day.Although it is not officially on the calendar, it is a wonderful occasion to highlight the importance, complexity, and responsibility of the work performed by these specialists. Nephrologists at Arabkir Medical Center, faithful to the Hippocratic Oath, work every day to save lives. Each year, about 1,900 patients visit the nephrology department, and approximately 4,900 patients are under dispensary supervision. Dear doctors, we congratulate you from the bottom of our hearts and thank you for every life saved, every restored health, and every smile that people regain thanks to your work. We are grateful to nephrologists, who safeguard the health of our kidneys and urinary system. Arabkir Medical Center: A Reliable Partner in Health

Guests of the “Luys Aravot” program on “Kentron” TV were Lusine Vardanyan, adult neurologist and neurophysiologist at Arabkir Medical Center, Elena Baghdasaryan, founder and head of the “Path of Life” charitable and public organization, and Mariam Arzumanyan, head of psychological support programs.

Purple Day is dedicated to raising awareness about epilepsy. The idea was initiated by a nine-year-old Canadian girl who, after receiving this diagnosis in 2008, wanted to challenge public perceptions about the disease and support her peers living with epilepsy. Today, on March 26, buildings and public spaces around the world are illuminated in purple as a symbol of solidarity.

The report by “Lurer” presents information about the indications for surgery and anesthetic considerations in the treatment of epilepsy.

Air alert: What to Do and What to Watch For Arabkir Medical Center conducted an evacuation training exercise aimed at improving staff preparedness and rapid response in the event of an air disaster.During the exercise, the medical staff acted in a coordinated and organized manner, ensuring the safety of patients throughout the evacuation process. Such training is essential for maintaining readiness and enabling medical personnel to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations.

Today is World Down Syndrome Day. Approximately one in every 700–800 newborns worldwide is born with Down syndrome, a genetic condition that affects a child’s development as well as certain physical and cognitive characteristics.World Down Syndrome Day was established by the World Health Organization in 2012 to raise awareness about the condition and promote the rights and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. Children with Down syndrome are often affectionately referred to as “sunshine children.” The ArBeS Health Center has been engaged for many years in the assessment and rehabilitation therapy of children with Down syndrome, providing specialized care and support.

The pediatric healthcare system in Armenia is on the verge of significant changes: strengthening primary care, decentralizing services to the regions, introducing the latest medical technologies, and expanding international cooperation.In an interview with Armenpress, Ara Babloyan, pediatrician, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Scientific Director of Arabkir Medical Center, discussed the sector’s development priorities, the Center’s achievements over the past year, and the challenges currently facing pediatric healthcare. — Mr. Babloyan, how would you assess the past year for the Center, and what were its most significant achievements?— Arabkir Medical Center is a dynamically developing institution, and our work should be viewed as a continuous process. We constantly review the functions we perform, striving to improve and further develop them, bringing our services to a higher level. Our activities have several main directions. The first is the provision of daily medical services, including pediatrics, pediatric surgery, otorhinolaryngology (ENT), orthopedics, and other specialties. These services form the foundation of the system. At the same time, we are actively developing highly specialized fields where we have achieved particularly strong results. In pediatric neurology and neurosurgery, for example, Arabkir has become a leader not only in Armenia but also in the region. We treat patients from abroad, especially from Central Asia, who come to our Center for effective care. The field of epilepsy is especially important for us. We currently have more than 4,000 patients under our care, which is a considerable number for Armenia. Treatment is primarily medication-based; however, when this approach proves ineffective, we turn to surgical methods. In this area, we have gone through several stages of development—from traditional open surgeries to the introduction of stereotactic techniques. These methods make it possible to identify the source of the problem within a few days and perform radiofrequency ablation without open surgery. Currently, we are also introducing deep brain stimulation, representing a new stage in the development of epilepsy treatment. Read the full interview on the Armenpress website.

Life goes on… A woman who received a kidney transplant has become a mother. After undergoing a kidney transplant at Arabkir Medical Center, Arpi not only regained her health but also fulfilled her greatest dream of becoming a parent. The kidney donor was her husband.

Today is World Juvenile Arthritis Day. To raise public awareness about this condition, Gayane Khloyan, Head of the Rheumatology Service at Arabkir Medical Center, answers common questions that concern parents.What is juvenile arthritis?Juvenile arthritis is a chronic inflammation of the joints that occurs in children under the age of 18. In most cases, the exact cause of the disease remains unknown.What are the initial symptoms? How can a parent recognize the problem? The initial symptoms may vary. However, the most common signs are swelling and pain in a joint. Children may not always be able to clearly describe what they are feeling or indicate which part of the body hurts.Parents may notice that the child holds one leg, avoids walking, or begins to limp. Careful observation is important to identify the cause of these symptoms. In addition to joint inflammation, other symptoms may appear, such as general weakness, fever, and sometimes a rash. Is this a hereditary disease? Juvenile arthritis is not considered a hereditary disease. However, there may be a certain genetic predisposition. What are the possible consequences if the disease is not treated? Delayed or absent treatment can lead to disability. Starting treatment at an early stage significantly improves the child’s quality of life and allows them to live a normal, active life. Your advice to parents At first, parents may find it difficult to accept the presence of a chronic disease. However, there are many ways to help children manage this condition. It is very important for parents to cooperate closely with the doctor. The physician cannot manage the disease alone, since the child spends most of the time at home under parental supervision. Effective care requires teamwork involving the family, the child, the physician, and the rheumatologist, as well as other specialists such as an orthopedist, an ophthalmologist, and a rehabilitation specialist.

Niko Arzumanyan, Head of the Neurosurgical Service at Arabkir Medical Center, presents modern approaches to the surgical treatment of Parkinson's disease, focusing on Deep Brain Stimulation — an advanced neurosurgical method used to manage movement disorders.

The Armenian representative office of the International Respiratory Coalition has begun operating in Armenia. The announcement was made on March 10 during the forum titled “The Future of Respiratory Medicine.” The event was organized by the Armenian Pediatric Association, the Association of Pulmonologists, and the Armenian Cystic Fibrosis Family Community, with the support of the Health Fund for Children of Armenia.The international coalition aims to support the development of a national respiratory health strategy, strengthen cooperation between pediatric and adult healthcare services, promote evidence-based policies, and raise public awareness about respiratory health.

Arabkir Medical Center has successfully passed certification for compliance with the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018 international standards, confirming the implementation and effective functioning of the Quality Management System and the Occupational Safety and Health Management System. Highlighting this achievement, Arman Babloyan, Director of Arabkir Medical Center, expressed his gratitude to all those whose consistent work and effective cooperation made this success possible. “This is a great responsibility, which, we assure you, we will continue to carry out with dignity,” said A. Babloyan. According to Gagik Makaryan, a quality management expert, Arabkir Medical Center, as a medical service provider, stands out for its high standards of quality both in Armenia and internationally. As a certified organization meeting high quality management standards, Arabkir Medical Center has been registered in the international register. Hermine Nersisyan, Head of the Quality Management and Assurance Department of the Medical Center, noted:  “The quality management system is dynamic; therefore, it requires us to build on our existing achievements through consistent daily work in order to further improve the system.” This important achievement clearly demonstrates that Arabkir Medical Center stands out for its high quality standards, responsible work, and leading position in the field of medical services.

Today is World Kidney Day, observed annually on the second Thursday of March around the world. Kidney health plays an essential role in maintaining overall well-being. Specialists recommend consulting a physician in a timely manner and undergoing the necessary examinations to detect potential problems at an early stage. Stay informed and take care of your health.

On the occasion of International Women's Day, from March 8 to April 7, laboratory tests for vitamin D and hormones will be available with discounts of up to 40%. Timely laboratory testing plays a key role in the early detection of diseases and helps prevent possible complications.

The Association of Pulmonologists, the Armenian Pediatric Association, and the Armenian Cystic Fibrosis Family Community, with the support of the Health Fund for Children of Armenia, organized a forum titled “The Future of Respiratory Medicine.” During the forum, the official establishment of the Armenian representative office of the International Respiratory Coalition will be announced. The initiative aims to support the development of a national respiratory health strategy, promote evidence-based policy, strengthen cooperation between pediatric and adult healthcare services, and raise public awareness. The forum will also address the prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment of respiratory diseases.Key topics of discussionChildren’s respiratory health and preventionThe growing risks of smoking and e-cigarette use among young peopleThe impact of environmental factors on lung healthRecent achievements in respiratory medicineOpportunities for professional and sectoral cooperation📅 Date: March 10, 2026 🕒 Time: 14:00 📍 Venue: Armenia Marriott Hotel — Ararat Hall

Obesity is one of the most significant health challenges of our time. Arabkir Medical Center provides Weight Control Service for School-Age Children and Adolescents. A multidisciplinary team of specialists thoroughly analyzes the causes of excess weight, provides comprehensive consultations, and ensures continuous medical monitoring.

Another meeting of participants of the Annual Winter School of Neurology took place, during which important and topical issues in the field of pediatrics were discussed. Over the past 15 years, the program has steadily expanded, bringing together dozens of specialists interested in neurology and creating a strong platform for professional cooperation and knowledge exchange. Although the program was initially designed for third-year pediatric residents, today experienced pediatricians also participate in the winter school, contributing to the exchange of professional experience. The main goal of the school is the in-depth study of neurological disorders in pediatrics and the transfer of knowledge and expertise to young physicians. Arabkir Medical Center — A Reliable Partner in Health

With the ongoing development of diagnostic services in Armenia, it may sometimes appear that the number of various diseases is rapidly increasing. In reality, improved technologies now allow conditions to be detected more frequently and at earlier stages. The belief that X-rays or other radiological examinations can accelerate the development of disease is a myth. Marine Grigoryan, Head of the Diagnostic Imaging Service at Arabkir Medical Center, addressed this issue in an interview with Sputnik Armenia. According to her, when appropriate medical standards and dosage protocols are followed, such risks are unfounded. “X-rays are a form of radiation that the human body is naturally exposed to in everyday life. For example, a person may receive a higher dose of radiation during a single airplane flight than from one diagnostic examination. Therefore, the idea that a properly administered X-ray dose can cause or accelerate disease is a misconception,” she noted.

Today marks World Epilepsy Day. Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures and affects more than 60 million people worldwide. The conference “Epilepsy: Out of the Shadows” was organized through the joint efforts of the Arabkir Medical Center and the “Way of Life” Charitable Foundation. The event addressed key issues related to medical care, educational support, and the social integration of children living with epilepsy. The conference brought together healthcare professionals, representatives of state institutions, educators, patients and their families, journalists, and individuals concerned with advancing epilepsy care in Armenia. “I would like to proudly note that the number of surgical interventions for children has reached nearly 100,” said Ara Babloyan, Scientific Director of the Arabkir Medical Center. “A child who previously traveled to Kazakhstan for surgery and experienced daily seizures is now seizure-free.” Anahit Avanesyan, Minister of Health of the Republic of Armenia, emphasized:  “We provide medication to every child in need, but we will not stop there. We are committed to ensuring stable outcomes through modern technological solutions. These services are costly, but for us, the life and full development of every child are invaluable.” The conference was also attended by Biayna Sukhudyan, Head of the Neurology and Epileptology Service of the Arabkir Medical Center; Elena Baghdasaryan, Head of the Way of Life Charitable Foundation; Lilit Mnatsakanyan, Director of the Republican Pedagogical-Psychological Center of the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports; Nune Pashayan, Head of the Department of Maternal and Child Health Protection at the Ministry of Health; and Marine Harutyunyan, Head of the Department of Drug Policy and Medical Technologies at the Ministry of Health. During the conference, specialists presented recent achievements in epileptology and modern treatment approaches. Events of this kind play a crucial role in raising awareness, strengthening interdisciplinary cooperation, and advancing solutions to improve the quality of life for vulnerable groups, including children living with epilepsy.

On February 7, from 10:00 to 15:00, a conference “Epilepsy: Out of the Shadows” will be held at the American University of Armenia (40 Marshall Baghramyan Ave.).The event aims to bring together specialists, parents, and key stakeholders to openly discuss epilepsy, raise public awareness, and collaboratively explore solutions to improve the quality of life for children living with this condition.

Nineteen-year-old Rubik and his six-year-old sister Eva have never walked. Rubik has not even been able to sit upright for more than a year. Weighing only 15 kilograms, he spends all day in the same position due to severe muscle deformities. Day and night, Rubik relies on a special oxygen device to breathe. Both siblings live with a rare genetic condition — spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The family’s greatest hope is that SMA medication will become accessible not only for Eva but also for Rubik, to help stabilize his breathing and slow the progression of the disease that continues to worsen daily. Source: Sputnik Armenia

In October 2025, the Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology Section was established within the Armenian Pediatric Association, bringing together pediatric gastroenterologists, endoscopists, and hepatologists from across the country. The subdivision currently unites 17 specialists.Professor Gayane Amaryan, Head of the Gastroenterology service of the Arabkir MC-ICAH , who initiated the creation of the section, noted, that the primary goals are to consolidate professional expertise to improve the quality of pediatric gastroenterological care, develop clinical, research, and educational programs, expand cooperation with International gastroenterology organizations (including ESPGHAN, NASPGHAN, and UEG), and strengthen collaboration with the Association of Adult Gastroenterologists of Armenia.The Pediatric Gastroenterology Service of the Arabkir MC–ICAH has maintained active cooperation with ESPGHAN for many years. This collaboration includes participation in Annual international conferences, support for ESPGHAN initiatives in Armenia, and the implementation of educational programs. Notably, ESPGHAN Eastern Summer Schools were organized in Yerevan in 2007 and 2017. GE service has also collaborated for 15 years with Professor Christian Braegger, a long-standing member of the ESPGHAN and the head of the Center for Gastroenterology and Nutrition Research at the Zurich Children's Hospital, who actively supports clinical practice and medical education in Gastroenterology at the center.It should be noted that the Gastroenterology Service of the Arabkir Medical Center currently provides long-term follow-up for more than 500 children with chronic gastroenterological and hepatological conditions up to the age of 18. After this age, patients require continued monitoring by adult specialists to prevent complications and improve quality of life. The proper organization of this transition period represents a significant healthcare challenge worldwide and requires coordinated involvement of both pediatric and adult gastroenterologists.This issue is directly addressed by the “Health Care Transition” campaign launched by ESPGHAN in October 2025, in which the Gastroenterology Service of the Arabkir MC is actively involved. The campaign’s slogan, “The transition process is not an ordinary transfer,” highlights the importance of a structured and patient-centered approach.As part of the campaign, the first stage was completed in November 2025, during which ESPGHAN educational materials were supplemented and translated into Armenian. As part of the second stage, in December 2025, the first meeting of gastroenterologists from the four Pediatric and the five Adult tertiary-level medical centers was organized by the Pediatric Gastroenterology Section and Armenian Pediatric Association.During the meeting, the translated ESPGHAN materials were presented, and discussions focused on their implementation in Armenia, localization challenges, and existing barriers in the transition process. Summarizing the event, Gayane Amaryan, Head of the Gastroenterology Service of the Arabkir MC, emphasized the importance of active participation and distributing the ESPGHAN translated resources by specialists and expressed hope that the ESPGHAN-initiated Health Care Transition process will continue to develop gradually and systematically in Armenia.

Pediatrician Mary Marandyan of the Arabkir Medical Center was a guest on the Public Television Company’s “Be Healthy” program.