The Romanian Minister of Health, Rafila, has announced that a total of 3,500 health projects are currently underway in the country, with the funding provided by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). These projects, which amount to 11 billion lei, are set to revolutionize the healthcare system in Romania within the next few years. The initiatives include the construction of hospitals, the establishment of family doctors’ offices, integrated community centers, specialist outpatient clinics, and neonatology wards.
During an event marking two years of project implementation in the health sector, Minister Rafila highlighted the collaboration between health professionals, hospitals, the media, and non-governmental organizations as essential for the success of these projects. The government advisor to Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, Carmen Orban, also emphasized the significant opportunity the last two years have presented for healthcare investments in Romania.
Under the PNRR funding, the digitization process of hospitals and health insurance companies is being carried out. One hundred million euros have been allocated for digitization projects aimed at improving access to health services, enhancing management efficiency, and optimizing human resources planning.
Furthermore, Viorel Jinga, the Rector of the Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, spoke on behalf of the G6 University Alliance Association. He announced several reform projects focused on the development of professional competences, health management training for doctors and nurses, as well as integrity and ethics training for 3,000 professionals.
Dr. Caroline Clarinval, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) Office in Romania, emphasized the PNRR’s objective of bringing about a radical change in the healthcare system. The WHO has acted as a technical partner to the Ministry of Health, providing support in the areas of human resources, medical service management, care quality, and digitization. International expertise has been leveraged through collaboration with the WHO Romania and the WHO Regional Office for Europe.
The implementation of these projects signifies a significant step forward for the Romanian healthcare system. With the support of PNRR funding and partnerships with various organizations, Romania aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare services. The reform initiatives are expected to bring about positive transformations in the coming years, benefitting both healthcare professionals and the general public.