The Minister pointed out that “financial autonomy in the public sector will create an opportunity for fair competition among specialist doctors and nurses, based on their performance.”

“Human capital, when it comes to medicine, is undoubtedly the most important pillar of our healthcare system.”

The Albanian government is committed to building a strong healthcare system based on human capital, with doctors playing a key role across the country. However, effective practice requires adequate infrastructure, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and technology. Increased government investment in medical technology is essential, especially to align with European standards in screening. These investments, though costly, are necessary to improve conditions in public healthcare, said Balluku.

She further stated, “The hospital we are visiting today was constructed to set this positive example. The process of managerial autonomy has already started here, and in 2025, financial autonomy will be applied.”

Balluku emphasized that hospitals with financial autonomy, starting with the Memorial Regional Hospital in Fier, will attract doctors and nurses based on performance. Reduced travel time between major cities will eliminate barriers related to residence and employment, and in the long term, the public will benefit from the Albanian government’s reform.

Balluku also emphasized that the government is focused on further increasing the salaries of doctors and nurses, while noting that significant progress has already been made, with new steps being taken as part of the reform.

“Study financial autonomy a bit; all of you will have the opportunity to be competitors in the market, even though you will contribute to the private sector. Your performance and capacity will have specific value in this entire selection process,” said Balluku. /j.p/sm/