Investment in preventive programs is crucial for the long-term health of the population and the sustainability of health resources, as discussed in a meeting between Montenegro’s Minister of Health, Vojislav Šimun, and Italy’s Minister of Health, Orazio Scilaci.

The Montenegrin Ministry of Health reported that Šimun met with Skilaći, who is visiting Montenegro officially, to enhance bilateral cooperation in healthcare.

During the meeting, they highlighted the need to intensify collaboration in cardiac surgery, telemedicine, preventive programs, organ transplantation, and the professional development of healthcare personnel.

The Ministry indicated that Šimun and Skilaći exchanged insights and discussed current projects and priorities in their healthcare systems, particularly focusing on innovation, digitalization, and improving access to healthcare services.

“In a constructive dialogue, it was noted that prevention serves as a foundational element of any successful healthcare system, making investments in preventive initiatives essential for maintaining public health and ensuring the sustainability of health resources,” the statement outlined.

Challenges faced by the healthcare systems of Montenegro and Italy were also addressed, including an aging population, a shortage of medical professionals, strains on secondary and tertiary healthcare, and the need to bolster primary healthcare services.

Šimun reflected on his official visit to Italy’s healthcare system last year, where he visited various healthcare facilities and commenced discussions on topics that have now been formalized through bilateral cooperation.

“Šimun and Skilaći reiterated their commitment to strengthening healthcare system capacities through knowledge exchange, the implementation of modern technologies, and the development of sustainable cooperative models that would enhance the quality of healthcare in both nations,” the statement affirmed.

The Ministry announced plans to create joint expert teams to formulate specific cooperation programs in the upcoming period.

“Skilaći and his team visited the Center for Cardiac Surgery at the Clinical Center of Montenegro, discussing current operations and the potential for enhancing collaboration between Montenegro’s largest healthcare facility and Italian healthcare centers with the director, Aleksandar Radović, and the staff of the Clinic for Cardiac Surgery and the Center for Science,” the statement concluded.

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