Republic of Moldova accelerates action on brain health through adoption of global neurology plan

The Republic of Moldova is strengthening its efforts to improve brain health and ensure equitable care for all those affected by neurological conditions in the country. The burden of neurological conditions is growing, with neurological and cardiovascular conditions accounting for over half of all annual deaths, highlighting the need for sustained public health action. Common modifiable risk factors such as high blood pressure, tobacco and alcohol use, poor diet, raised blood glucose, physical inactivity and overweight and obesity remain widespread and insufficiently addressed.

To advance the implementation of WHO's Intersectoral global action plan on epilepsy and other neurological disorders (IGAP) 2022-2031, the Society of Neurologists of the Republic of Moldova, together with the Ministry of Health and in partnership with WHO, carried out a situational analysis and stakeholder mapping exercise, as well as 2 national capacity building and implementation workshops. A national policy brief, the IGAP Declaration, was developed to outline the country's commitment to the IGAP framework and guide national efforts moving forward.

"Together, these workshops established a unified national vision for brain health in the Republic of Moldova, anchored in equity, prevention and cross-sector collaboration, by bringing together policy-makers, clinicians, researchers, people with lived experience and patient advocates to shape inclusive and sustainable strategies," stressed Dr Ion Prisacaru, State Secretary at the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Moldova.

A national declaration on brain health

The IGAP Declaration outlines priority actions for the Republic of Moldova and serves as a basis for policy dialogue, concerted advocacy and programmatic implementation.

The Declaration sets out a 2-phase approach.

• Phase I (2025-2026) will focus on laying the foundations through updated national policies, creation of a National Action Plan for Neurological Conditions, establishment of a coordination structure, strengthened data systems and broad public awareness and education campaigns.
  
• Phase II (2027-2030) will pursue sustainable transformation by expanding infrastructure and specialized services, integrating neurological care into universal health coverage, improving legislation for patient protection and scaling up rehabilitation and support services nationwide.

Through these measures, the Declaration aims to improve prevention, early diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of neurological conditions, while reducing inequalities in access to care. Overall, it will contribute to building a modern, resilient and equitable health system in the Republic of Moldova - one that improves quality of life for people with neurological conditions, their families and carers, and aligns the country with global health commitments.

"The IGAP framework enables us to bring the Republic of Moldova's efforts in line with international standards while responding to the specific needs of our population," said Stanislav Groppa, President of the Society of Neurologists of the Republic of Moldova.

A national vision for brain health

The first workshop, held in December 2024, provided a platform for assessing the current landscape of neurological conditions in the Republic of Moldova, identifying gaps and opportunities for IGAP implementation and laying the groundwork for a coordinated response. Participants included representatives from the Ministry of Health, National Agency for Public Health, National Health Insurance Company and the Medicines and Medical Devices Agency, people with lived experience, as well as experts from academic and clinical fields such as rehabilitation, maternal and child health, emergency medicine and paediatric neurology.

Participants emphasized the need for coordinated, integrated and person-centred services, and agreed on establishing a national coordination mechanism and a network of IGAP implementers.

The second workshop, held in March 2025, focused on translating these strategic priorities into concrete action. Designed as a hybrid event, it combined WHO-led public health guidance with national dialogue to foster multisectoral engagement, operationalize priority actions and strengthen capacity for IGAP implementation. Key themes included sustainable investment in neurology, improved service delivery and ensuring equitable access to quality care across the life course.

"Brain health must be a public health priority. Ensuring early diagnosis, access to care and support for people with neurological conditions is essential for health systems that serve everyone," emphasized Dr Miljana Grbic, WHO Representative in the Republic of Moldova.

Looking ahead

The IGAP implementation process in the Republic of Moldova has highlighted the importance of collective action and cross-sector collaboration. The project was showcased at various international forums, contributing to regional learning and positioning the country as a model for IGAP implementation in the region. As the country moves forward, stakeholders are focusing on sustaining momentum by continuing the roll-out of national priority actions. Among these efforts is the development of a platform and support network for people with lived experience of neurological conditions, ensuring that their voices are meaningfully reflected in service design.

By strengthening its national response to neurological disorders, the Republic of Moldova is aligning with global priorities and contributing to improved health outcomes and quality of life for all those affected by brain health challenges.