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We think it is fair to say that this more complete method of compiling medi-
cal documentation, has enabled medical personnel in the resettlement coun-
tries to have a much better grasp of past medical problems of the individual
thereby minimizing the need for further testing. It has also been a great
benefit to ICM since our doctors can now begin the medical processing already
aware of individual problem areas. There is, of course, the added benefit of
cutting costs when exam information and lab results can be shared. Through this mutual assistance, there has been significant progress in decreasing
the number, as well as the length, of delays due to documentation, and in
generally improving the overall quality of medical services for all agencies.
The second area where progress has been made is in the diagnosing and treat-
ment of persons with mental or psychological problems. Most of us here today
would admit that incidences of this disability are increasing. ICM, in coor-
dination with HCR and voluntary agencies is currently addressing this problem.
We hope in the coming months to formulate more completely the goals of this
program, and by the next CCSDPT conference have an even smoother and more be-
neficial program. This will only be possible with everyone's assistance. We
would hope that this will continue to improve, as new areas of coordination
are explored.
:
It is worth nothing that in all these areas of working together, people have
managed to keep the process relatively unemcumbered and have retained, after
all these years, a sense of teamwork in their assistance efforts. ICM could
not have acheived such detailed quality work without such assistance, and we
thank you for it.
Looking to the year ahead, we must recognize that camp work and resettlement
operations are still evolving. Many changes may be expected during the next
12 months that will allow us to further continue to evaluate systems, and co-
operative efforts. We must remember how much this constant ability to bend
has proven to be the best solution during past years and we must be willing
to be equally flexible and cooperative in the future. The very definition
of CCSDPT itself stands as an example for what can be achieved when everyone
pulls together.
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COMMITTEE FOR EUROPEAN MIGRATION
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