Interview by Cristian Hotoboc, President of the Romanian Association of Private Medical Service Providers (PALMED), President of the Alliance for Health in Romania and UEHP Board Secretary.
Palmed is organising the 3rd edition of the European Private Hospital Awards on 29 May 2024 in Bucharest. What do you expect from this event?
We are looking forward to the third edition of the European Private Hospital Awards. We are delighted to invite our colleagues from other European private hospitals to Romania, to encourage collaboration, share best practice and celebrate excellence and innovation in the private healthcare sector. We believe that by bringing together representatives from all over Europe, we can create a dynamic of networking, knowledge exchange and partnership building that will contribute to improving the standards and quality of healthcare in the participating countries. It’s very important to be united, to get to know each other. Taking part in this event is a unique opportunity.
What message would you like to send to all the private hospitals in Europe to encourage them to apply?
Award-winning hospitals receive recognition and encouragement. We invite all hospitals in the European Union to submit their outstanding projects and initiatives, which have had a positive impact on the care of their patients. We have defined several categories that allow us to highlight all facets of their activities and expertise: technology, education, community involvement, management and overall quality of healthcare services, collaboration, etc. The contribution of European private hospitals is essential in all UEHP member countries, and this is an opportunity for them to be seen and inspire their peers across the continent.
Why is this so important to highlight the specificities and excellence of the European private healthcare sector?
In most European countries, the private sector is an integral part of the healthcare system, complementing the public sector. The private sector is also a driver of innovation and change. That’s why we need to communicate about the importance of our sector, and the efforts and investments we make to deliver quality care and stimulate excellence.
How important is the Romanian private healthcare sector in the country’s healthcare system?
In Romania, the private health sector is developing rapidly alongside a well-established public sector. The private sector opens new hospitals every year and works closely with and complements the public sector. Almost the entire primary care sector is in private hands: GP practices, laboratories, outpatient and specialist clinics, radiology, etc. Besides, around 20% of hospital admissions are private, and outpatient care is contributing to the development of the Romanian health sector, with specialised care and shorter waiting times.
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