A situation assessment of rehabilitation in Uzbekistan

Overview

This report presents the results of the Systematic Assessment of Rehabilitation Services conducted in Uzbekistan in February and March 2023. Commissioned by the Ministry of Health, the assessment was supported by the WHO Regional Office for Europe and the WHO Country Office in Uzbekistan. The aim was to evaluate the state of rehabilitation services and identify priorities for strengthening integration with health and social care systems, including assistive technology. The assessment included document reviews, interviews with key stakeholders, and site visits to health and social care facilities. Findings show increasing political commitment to rehabilitation, but challenges remain in governance, workforce development, financing, and access to services. The report outlines key strategic actions to advance rehabilitation, including the appointment of a national focal point, development of a national strategy, integration of rehabilitation into primary health care, workforce training, and expansion of access to assistive technology. These actions aim to support the Government in creating a more inclusive and responsive health system.