Kosovo

In Kosovo, we are working in partnership with the Dutch foundation ‘Care for Kosovo Kids’ to support the training and education of healthcare professionals.

Programme Centre

University Clinical Center of Kosovo, Prishtina

Twinning Centre

Princess Máxima Center

Background
Problems
Key Activities

Kosovo live around 1.9 million people. Even though it is going through a process of rebuilding after its declaration of independence in 2008, unemployment is high, the average wage is low and in turn, the quality of healthcare is still very much lacking behind. For children with cancer there is often no treatment available due to families not being able to afford the costs of therapy and a lack of available medication and medical equipment.

A lack of formal training for paediatric oncologists
A lack of public awareness of childhood cancer
Limited emotional support for patients, families and staff
Families are forced to travel huge distances to access treatment
A lack of essential items such as alcohol, gloves, soap, detergent, test tubes etc.

Staff on oncology wards are being trained through ongoing twinning partnerships and opportunities to attend regional and international meetings
Doctors in Kosovo receive advice and counselling guidance on how to communicate with families
A child-friendly textbook has bee published to explain to children what chemotherapy is and how it works