Albania is making significant strides in enhancing its health and social services, focusing on integrated approaches that prioritize the well-being of children and families. Recent initiatives, including the Universal Progressive Home Visiting (UPHV) model, aim to strengthen primary health care and social support systems across the country.
Key Takeaways
- The National Forum on Integrated Health and Social Services gathered over 120 representatives from various health and social institutions.
- The UPHV model aims to improve home visiting services for children and families at risk.
- The initiative is supported by UNICEF and aligns with national health strategies.
- The FAO is promoting sustainable tourism through the Chestnut Route in northern Albania.
Integrated Health And Social Services
The National Forum titled "Integrated Health and Social Services Closer to Children and Families" was held in Lezha, bringing together key stakeholders, including the UNICEF Representative, the Minister of Health and Social Protection, and local government officials. The forum emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach to health and social services, focusing on the needs of children and families.
The UPHV model, supported by UNICEF, aims to enhance routine home visits for children within the framework of primary health care. This model facilitates a referral system that connects families at risk with necessary services, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to care.
Achievements Of The UPHV Model
The implementation of the UPHV model has yielded impressive results, including:
- Regions Involved: 7 regions are currently implementing the UPHV model.
- Healthcare Professionals Trained: 548 doctors and nurses have participated in accredited professional development activities.
- Primary Health Centers: 82 centers are actively involved in the initiative.
- Home Visits Conducted: 20,382 home visits were made during the 2023-2024 period.
- Families Reached: 5,620 families with children under 5 received home visits.
- Multidisciplinary Support: 116 cases of children and families facing multiple deprivations are being followed by specialized teams.
Promoting Sustainable Tourism
In addition to health initiatives, Albania is also focusing on sustainable economic growth through tourism. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has launched the "Chestnut Route" project in Tropoja, aiming to promote sustainable development in the Albanian Alps. This initiative highlights the region’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, offering unique outdoor experiences for visitors.
The Chestnut Route consists of two trails that showcase local guesthouses and traditional cuisine, emphasizing the economic and cultural significance of chestnuts in the area. This project not only aims to boost tourism but also to create a sustainable value chain for local products.
Conclusion
Albania’s commitment to integrating health and social services, alongside promoting sustainable tourism, reflects a holistic approach to national development. By prioritizing the well-being of families and leveraging natural resources for economic growth, Albania is paving the way for a healthier and more prosperous future for its citizens.
Sources
- Integrated health and social services closer to children and families | UNICEF Albania, Unicef.
- FAO project paves the way for the Chestnut Route in Albania, Food and Agriculture Organization.
- MR SHKRETA TAKES UP HIS POST IN ALBANIA – European Judo Union, European Judo Union.
- All you need to know for Albania today – Euronews Albania, Euronews Albania.
- Higher Pay Lures Albanians to Booming Montenegrin Resort | Balkan Insight, Balkan Insight.
Turkish 
English