CEB extends €200 million loan to Serbia for health infrastructure

The Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) approved a substantial €200 million loan to the Serbian government to support investments in health infrastructure throughout the country.

Determined to tackle the challenges facing its healthcare system, including facilities in need of modernization and an aging population, the Serbian government has decided to take a series of measures in order to improve health infrastructure, equipment, and services.

The loan provided by the CEB will be used to a large extent for the refurbishment of some 20 general hospitals throughout the country and for the acquisition of modern equipment. The renovation of existing buildings will also include energy efficiency improvements as well as measures to improve access for persons with disabilities.

The investments will significantly improve conditions for patients and medical staff, increase the efficiency of the services provided thanks to the use of modern equipment, and enhance the energy efficiency and functionality of the buildings concerned. It is estimated that close to 20% of the population of Serbia will benefit from the project, or around 1.3 million persons.

During his official visit to Serbia last month, Governor Wenzel inaugurated along with Prime Minister Ana Brnabić the Dragiša Mišović Hospital in Belgrade, one of seven medical institutions in the Serbian capital co-financed by the CEB. The CEB is also supporting preparations for the construction of a new University Children’s Hospital in Belgrade.

Original source: CEB
Published on 19 November 2018