TIRANA, August 29/ATA/ Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Evis Sala, accompanied by Director of the National Institute of Tumors Helidon Nina, visited the newly upgraded chemotherapy day center at Vlora Regional Hospital.
This investment is part of the transformation of the oncology service in the country, with the aim that during the years 2026–2027 oncology services will be extended to 12 regional hospitals. The University Hospitals of Vlora and Korça are the first three completed investments, while work continues in Shkodra, Lezha and Fier.
During the visit, Minister Sala emphasized that bringing the service closer to the patient is priority of the reform in the field of oncology, while she appreciated the cooperation of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare with the “Mane” Foundation for the upgrade of some of the day chemotherapy centers in the country.
“We made a reality what we promised. We established the National Tumor Institute and strengthened the oncology network. The center in Vlora is the third upgraded center and work will continue with the other centers, with the aim of completing this process by 2027,” said the minister.
Minister Sala focused particularly on the importance of communication between the doctor and the patient, describing it as an integral part of the quality of the health service.
“We, as doctors and health professionals, must not leave any question unanswered. We must have the patience to explain to patients all the information they need”, emphasized Sala.
To strengthen national oncology services, comprehensive upgrades are underway across organizational standards, infrastructure, equipment, and pharmaceuticals. Key milestones include the approval of 38 unified oncology treatment protocols and the evaluation of eight chemotherapy centers, three of which have been fully requalified. Additionally, a ninth chemotherapy site is currently opening at the Fier Memorial Hospital. Notably, the country has also established its first Breast Unit, introducing a modern, multidisciplinary model for diagnosing and treating breast pathologies according to international best practices.
Oncology care advanced significantly in May 2026 with the launch of a third linear accelerator, with a fourth planned to further expand capacity. Simultaneously, regional centers increased their available oncology drugs by 23%, introducing nine new active principles. These additions broaden treatment options for patients fighting lung, breast, and hematological cancers, as well as melanoma and tumors with specific biomarkers.
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