Human rights integrated into medical training at Nicolae Testemitanu Medical University of Moldova

The Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy (USMF) of Moldova continues to modernize the educational process by integrating human rights principles in the training of future healthcare professionals. The subject was addressed at the scientific and practical conference titled, Training Health Professionals for Human-Rights-Centered Practice.

The event was held within the project titled, Zero Discrimination in Health Institutions, implemented by USMF Nicolae Testemitanu, in partnership with UN agencies and brought together educators, students, national experts and representatives of international organizations.

At the opening of the conference, First Vice-Rector Olga Cernetchi emphasized that, starting from 2021, with the signing of the collaboration agreement with UNAIDS (Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS), the University had taken an important step towards a new approach in medical education. According to her, students are trained not only to treat medical conditions, but to understand the patient beyond diagnosis, show empathy and respect human dignity.

UNAIDS representative Svetlana Plamadeala praised the partnership with USMF as an innovative one regionally, mentioning that institutionalizing human rights in the university curriculum contributes to forming a more equitable healthcare system that caters to people's needs.

The importance of respecting the right to health, particularly in working with vulnerable groups, was also discussed by Svetlana Doltu, Director of the AFI NGO, who highlighted the necessity for future physicians to know the international legislation.

According to representatives of USMF Nicolae Testemitanu, study programmes have been modernized in recent years, new disciplines have been introduced, and the teaching staff's competencies in assertive communication and respect for human rights have been strengthened with the support of UNAIDS and the Swedish government.