Health in Mongolia

Life expectancy by WBG -Mongolia

Health in Mongolia

Health in Mongolia encompasses various aspects of the health and well-being of the population in Mongolia. The country has made significant strides in improving health outcomes, but it still faces numerous challenges, particularly in rural areas.

Healthcare System

The healthcare system in Mongolia is a mix of public and private services. The Ministry of Health oversees the public healthcare system, which provides the majority of health services. The system is structured into three levels: primary, secondary, and tertiary care.

Primary Care

Primary care is delivered through family health centers and soum hospitals. These facilities provide basic health services, including preventive care, maternal and child health, and immunization programs.

Secondary Care

Secondary care is provided by aimag (provincial) hospitals, which offer more specialized services than primary care facilities. These hospitals have departments for internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Tertiary Care

Tertiary care is available in specialized hospitals and clinics located primarily in the capital city, Ulaanbaatar. These facilities offer advanced medical treatments and procedures, including cardiology, oncology, and neurosurgery.

Health Indicators

Mongolia has made progress in improving key health indicators, but challenges remain.

Life Expectancy

The average life expectancy in Mongolia has increased over the years, reaching approximately 70 years. However, there is a significant disparity between urban and rural areas.

Infant Mortality

The infant mortality rate has decreased significantly due to improved healthcare services and immunization programs. However, it remains higher in rural areas compared to urban centers.

Communicable Diseases

Mongolia has made efforts to control communicable diseases such as tuberculosis and hepatitis. The country has implemented national programs to combat these diseases, but they still pose a significant public health challenge.

Nutrition and Diet

The traditional Mongolian diet is rich in meat and dairy products, which can lead to nutritional imbalances. Efforts are being made to promote a more balanced diet, including the consumption of fruits and vegetables.

Environmental Health

Environmental factors such as air pollution in Ulaanbaatar have significant health impacts. The government is working on initiatives to reduce pollution levels and improve air quality.

Mental Health

Mental health is an emerging concern in Mongolia. The country is working to improve mental health services and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

Challenges

Despite progress, Mongolia faces several healthcare challenges, including:

• Limited access to healthcare in rural areas
• Shortage of healthcare professionals
• High rates of alcohol consumption
• Increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases

See Also

• Ministry of Health (Mongolia)
• Ulaanbaatar
• Tuberculosis in Mongolia
• Air pollution in Mongolia