As part of a broader effort to promote ethical practices in healthcare in Armenia, the Government of the Republic of Armenia adopted a decision according to which, starting from 1 September 2025, senior and mid-level healthcare professionals must mandatorily obtain 10 CPD credits from the course “Ethical Rules for Healthcare Professionals” during each five-year cycle. This requirement is included within the minimum number of CPD credits established by law for certification purposes (220 CPD credits for senior healthcare professionals and 140 CPD credits for mid-level healthcare professionals).

To contribute to this effort and to promote a patient-centred approach to healthcare, the Council of Europe, in close cooperation with the National Institute of Health of the Republic of Armenia, organised two two-day training sessions on ethical rules for healthcare professionals, held on 13–15 May and 22–23 May, with a total of 70 healthcare professionals participating, including refugee healthcare professionals.

During the sessions, participants explored European and Armenian standards on ethics in healthcare, focusing on ethical norms in patient–doctor relationships, the absence of conflicts of interest, as well as principles such as medical secrecy, confidentiality, and informed consent. The programme combined expert-led sessions with role-play activities, case studies, and practical exercises.

These training sessions contribute to the accreditation of healthcare professionals, while also reinforcing integrity, professionalism, and patient-centred care for the benefit of the public.

The event was organised by the Council of Europe as part of its Project “Protection of Human Rights in Biomedicine III” implemented within the Council of Europe Action Plan for Armenia 2023-2026.