Challenges for health care development in Croatia

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Policy
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Croatian healthcare faces significant challenges impacting future development.
• A comprehensive understanding of these issues is crucial for strategic planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key challenges and perspectives for Croatian healthcare development over the next two decades.
• To provide a foundation for a national healthcare strategy.

Main Methods:

• Empirical research utilizing semi-structured interviews.
• Involved 49 diverse stakeholders from public and private healthcare sectors, insurance, pharmaceutical industries, and NGOs.

Main Results:

• Identified three main challenge categories: healthcare system functioning, healthcare personnel, and external factors.
• Systemic issues include inefficiency, financial unsustainability, poor infrastructure, lack of transparency, and governance.
• Personnel challenges involve low salaries, leading to migration and potential shortages.
• External factors encompass an aging population, unhealthy lifestyles, rising chronic diseases, and macroeconomic instability.

Conclusions:

• Developing a national healthcare strategy requires a long-term vision, clear policies, and a robust regulatory framework.
• Addressing identified challenges is essential for improving healthcare system efficiency and service quality.
• Strategic guidelines derived from this research are fundamental for Croatia's healthcare future.