Lončar: The plan is for everyone on waiting lists to be operated on within the next year to a year and a half

Lončar: The plan is for everyone on waiting lists to be operated on within the next year to a year and a half The Serbian Minister of Health, Zlatibor Lončar, announced a state plan to significantly reduce waiting lists by ensuring all patients are operated on within one to one and a half years. This ambitious goal requires substantial financial resources, additional work from medical staff including evening and weekend shifts, and a clear prioritization system for patients. The minister also highlighted the need to address the shortage of ambulances and the high costs associated with healthcare, emphasizing the importance of a patient-centered approach.

• Serbia aims to eliminate surgical waiting lists within 12-18 months.
• Achieving this requires significant funding and extra work from medical staff (evenings, weekends).
• Clear criteria will be established for waiting lists, distinguishing between scheduling, waiting, and priority patients.
• To manage the volume, other clinical centers will assist institutions like the Banjica Orthopedic Institute.
• The system faces challenges including a shortage of at least 100 ambulances and high treatment costs.
• The state is investing in healthcare infrastructure, though comprehensive renovation would cost billions.
• A priority is placed on a positive patient-doctor relationship, with politeness and attentive listening being mandatory.