A new Emergency Department opened Friday at Skopje-based general hospital "8 September", with the Health Ministry investing over EUR 800,000 in equipment.

Besides the required facilities, the Emergency Department includes two operating theaters and reanimation hall, worth US$480,000 granted by the United States Embassy.

Health Minister Nikola Todorov said the Emergency Department was capable of fully responding to the patients' needs.

"Enhancement of the infrastructure, including the opening of this Emergency Department, as well as strengthening of the human resources and new equipment, raises the quality of health services and increases the patients' satisfaction", added Todorov.

U.S. Ambassador Paul Wohlers said the department would raise the quality of healthcare in Macedonia, as well as the skills of doctors and in the hospital.

"We are planning to assist the reconstruction of other hospitals and clinics, but also the overhaul of schools throughout Macedonia. These are many other projects by the Embassy demonstrate our commitment to the friendship with Macedonia's citizens", stressed Wohlers.