Sala-meeting-healthcare – Albanian Telegraphic Agency.

Minister Sala says consultation begins on plan for national oncology institute

Sonila Mehmeti — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 10:30:37 +0000

TIRANA, June 15 /ATA/ Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Evis Sala, took part in a roundtable discussion hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce, where she outlined the ministry’s strategic priorities and key reforms aimed at transforming Albania’s healthcare system.

During her speech, Sala announced that the consultation process has begun on a Council of Ministers decision to establish a National Oncology Institute, described as one of the most important reforms in the field of oncology.

“The National Oncology Institute will be a university-based structure, a research and scientific unit, a national reference centre for oncological diseases, and the coordinator of the National Oncology Network. Its establishment represents an important step towards building a modern, integrated and standardised oncology care system in the country,” said Minister Evis Sala.

She emphasised that, in parallel, the National Oncology Network is being developed with the aim of ensuring patients have access to coordinated care and uniformly high standards of service across the country.

In the light of this reform, the minister also outlined the new additions to the 2026 Reimbursable Medicines List, which includes 55 new alternative branded medicines and 27 new active substances, thereby significantly broadening treatment options for patients with oncological and haematological conditions, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, as well as other high-impact health conditions.

In particular, in the field of oncology, the inclusion of innovative therapies provides improved treatment options and enhances Albanian patients’ access to modern medicines. For 2026, an additional 1.5 billion ALL will be allocated for innovative oncology drugs, increasing the total pharmaceuticals budget by 16% compared to 2025.

Minister Sala also stated that the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MHSP) is investing in expanding diagnostic and treatment capacities, with a third linear accelerator already in operation, while the installation of a fourth linear accelerator is planned within the year. In addition, in cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), PET scan and brachytherapy services are expected to become available within the year.

Another strategic priority presented during the meeting was the pharmaceutical reform, outlined in the draft law “On Medicinal Products for Human Use,” which represents the most far-reaching reform of the pharmaceutical sector in Albania.

The draft law aims to fully align Albanian legislation with European Union Directive 2001/83 and to establish a modern, transparent, and predictable regulatory system. In the coming weeks, it will undergo public consultation as part of an inclusive process involving all stakeholders in the sector.

According to Minister Sala, the new law will ensure greater safety, quality, and access to innovative therapies for patients, strengthen the regulatory framework for healthcare professionals, and create a more stable and competitive environment for the pharmaceutical industry. A key element of the reform will be the reinforcement of the pharmacovigilance system and the capacities of the National Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices.

During a meeting with representatives of the American Chamber of Commerce, Minister Sala also shared progress made by the Ministry in the digitalisation of the healthcare system, noting that as of 1 August, public hospitals will operate electronically.

This process aims to establish an integrated system in which digital platforms communicate with one another, improving care coordination, referrals, information exchange, and the use of data for health policy planning and monitoring.

In conclusion, Minister Sala highlighted the role of the business community and industry in supporting reforms, stressing that ongoing dialogue with partners remains essential for building a modern, sustainable healthcare system aligned with European Union standards.

/sm/