Kosovo Delegation on Study Trip to Hungary to Boost Health Promoting Hospitals Approach to NCDs
A delegation from Kosovo is currently on a week-long study trip to Hungary to enhance healthcare services for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the country. Organized within the framework of the Health Promoting Hospital Network, the visit is supported by OptiMedis and Bethesda Children’s Hospital. The delegation includes representatives from the Ministry of Health, National Institute of Public Health, general hospitals, and primary healthcare institutions.
Dr. György János Velkey, Director General of Bethesda Children’s Hospital and Dr. Zsuzsa Rákosy-Vokó, the Head of Health Promotion, provide the delegation members with insights into Hungary’s national hospital health promotion practices and help develop practical skills and strategies for implementing similar initiatives in Kosovo during the study tour.
Fekrije Hasani, Senior Health Expert for the IHS project, which is facilitating the visit, highlighted the importance of the trip, stating, “By studying Hungary’s strategies for health-promoting hospitals, we are gaining valuable insights into integrating preventative care and health education into Kosovo’s hospital practices. This exchange will enhance the quality of care for patients, especially those with non-communicable diseases, while empowering healthcare professionals in Kosovo to implement sustainable, patient-centered approaches.”
The focus of the IHS project is on improving clinical, managerial, and governance processes, with special attention to the General Hospitals of Peja and Gjakova. The visit to Hungary is expected to support the development of practical strategies that will lead to more sustainable, patient-centered healthcare in Kosovo, and foster greater collaboration between Hungarian and Kosovar health institutions, ensuring long-term development in Kosovo’s healthcare system.
This visit is part of the Integrated Health Services (IHS) project, a joint initiative of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and Kosovo’s Ministry of Health (MOH), facilitated by the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH).