Kosovo Sees Significant Improvement in Primary Healthcare Quality, But Disparities Remain

A new study conducted by Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) and Accessible Quality Healthcare has revealed significant improvements in primary healthcare quality in Kosovo over the past seven years.

The study, which was provisionally accepted and is set to be published soon, found that the overall infrastructure score of healthcare facilities improved from 56% in 2016 to 68% in 2023. Clinical observation scores also showed marked increases, with doctors' knowledge and compliance with clinical history and physical examinations improving significantly.

However, despite these gains, significant disparities remain in municipal performance, with some municipalities performing better than others. The study found that hygiene and infection prevention control measures were still below the 60% mark in many municipalities, highlighting a need for targeted interventions to address these gaps.

In terms of patient experiences, the study found that patients' perception of doctors' behavior remained overwhelmingly positive, with scores above 60% across all years and indicators. However, there were negative exceptions, including a significant drop in explanations regarding medicine intake from 96% in 2016 to 56% in 2023.

The study also highlighted the need for improved communication between healthcare providers and patients, with doctors' explanations of medication intake and health problems decreasing significantly over the past seven years.

Dr. Astrid Knoblauch, lead author of the study, commented: "While we are pleased with the progress made in improving Kosovo's healthcare infrastructure and clinical practices, there is still much work to be done to address the persistent disparities and gaps in care."

The study's findings emphasize the need for continued investment in staff training, better adherence to clinical protocols, and improved communication between healthcare providers and patients to sustain progress and align Kosovo's healthcare system with European Union standards.

As part of the Accessible Quality Healthcare project, which aims to strengthen the quality of primary healthcare services in Kosovo, future studies will focus on addressing these gaps and disparities to improve the overall quality of care in the country.