The past, present and future of the MENSANA project

Abstract

In 2014, the Government of the Republic of Moldova based on the needs identified by the Ministry of Health initiated a mental health reform to transform institution-based approach to more community-based model of care. The Swiss Development Cooperation mandated and financed technical support to the Ministry via the MENSANA project, which introduced multidisciplinary community mental health centers to the country. The project has been implemented in three phases focused on expanding mental health services nationwide, developing infrastructure of the mental health system, and strengthening multidisciplinary teams. MENSANA focused on institutionalizing knowledge, reinforcing service quality, and preparing for the long-term implementation of the new legal framework. The third phase emphasizes the transfer of responsibilities and activities to national institutions to ensure sustainability and continuity of the implemented initiatives. The MENSANA project significantly contributed to the establishment and development of community-based mental health services promoting social inclusion and community-driven, patient-focused services through 40 active Community Mental Health Centers at national level. The MENSANA project marks the transformation of mental health care in the Republic of Moldova. By building sustainable, community-based services and fostering strong intersectorial collaboration, MENSANA has laid the groundwork for a resilient national system.