Topic:
Country: Romania
Delegate Name: Allison Edwards
United Nations World Health Organization
Expanding Access to Medical Resources
Romania
Allison Edwards, Forest Hills Northern High School
In Romania, several issues regarding access to medical resources are prevalent including the astronomical prices for care out of pocket, and the distribution of hospital locations, raising levels of concern. The co-pays for many Romanian families are often a financial burden. A report by WHO found that a multitude of families was paying upwards of 40 percent of their capacity for their healthcare on co-pays. Additionally, most hospitals in Romania are located in urban areas, while rural areas are often left without access to these essential services.
One way that Romania is combating the issue of the lack of medical resources is by funding of projects such as planting new hospitals in unreached areas. In an article by the European Investment Bank Schriever says, “These hospitals are going to re-shape the health care system in Romania in a way that hasn’t been seen in a long time, It will save a lot of lives and definitely make lives a lot easier for the elderly, families and children not having to travel over three hours for a routine check-up. At present, it’s untenable for the people in these regions.
Furthermore, a study by the WHO concluded that between the years 2010 and 2015 the incredible spending on medical care was at an all-time high. One direction that Romania is moving is the instating of new policies such as full coverage for all people and regulating health providers, to charge reasonable prices.
In conclusion, Romania’s healthcare system has put its citizens at a disadvantage through many of its actions such as their co-pays and its lack of hospitals in all areas. However, as a whole, the country has been taking essential steps to ensure the fairness and overall health of the people of their country.
