By Adrineh Der-Boghossian

A recent decision by the Ministry of Healthcare of the Republic of Armenia to introduce fees for medical services provided to women who experience complications during their pregnancy has since been withdrawn. 

The decision, which stipulated a daily fee of 5,000 AMD (about $12.10 USD) for such services, roused the ire of several members of the public and civil society representatives, who, despite the decision being suspended, protested outside the ministry's office today, expressing their concern that a similar decision might be made in the future.

Another healthcare ministry decision to charge citizens 500 to 1,000 AMD ($1.21–$2.42 USD) for outpatient care, lab work, or any analysis work is still in effect. However, during the period of March 7 to April 8 (from International Women's Day to Motherhood and Beauty Day celebrated in Armenia), these services will be free of charge to women [AM].

Photo: Narek Aleksanyan