Modern Emergency Unit Opens in Rožaje, Enhancing Healthcare Access

A newly adapted and fully equipped emergency medical unit has officially opened in Rožaje, a significant development for local healthcare. The prior facility, which had fallen into disrepair, has been transformed into a modern health station that meets European Union standards, according to the Ministry of Health.

The renovation of the facility cost approximately €66,120 excluding VAT from the capital budget, with an additional €34,000 allocated for medical equipment. Furthermore, the Emergency Medical Institute provided a video laryngoscope valued at €2,000. The opening ceremony was attended by key officials, including the Minister of Health, Dr. Vojislav Šimun, and the Director of the Emergency Medical Institute, Dr. Vuk Niković.

Dr. Šimun emphasized the importance of this new facility for the citizens of Rožaje, stating, “This is a special day for the people of Rožaje, who now have access to faster, more efficient, and safer healthcare in emergency situations.” The renovated unit features a triage point, an examination room, observation areas, and storage for medications and medical supplies. It will be staffed by two doctors and 15 medical technicians.

The unit is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and plans are underway to implement home visit protocols and integrate with all 24 emergency medical units across Montenegro. Dr. Šimun stated, “Today, we are opening the 18th adapted emergency medical unit out of a total of 24 in Montenegro, as part of a broader project by the Ministry of Health.”

He highlighted that the goal is to have 20 renovated and interconnected units by the end of this year. In units that have already been upgraded, telemedicine is being utilized, and there are integrated EKG machines, laboratory diagnostics, and advanced GPS vehicle tracking systems. A triage system for patient reception is also being introduced, enhancing response to emergencies such as myocardial infarctions.

Dr. Šimun noted that investments in the healthcare system will continue in Rožaje and across the northern region of Montenegro. “The total value of capital projects for the Health Center in Rožaje amounts to approximately €260,000, with projects already submitted to the Ministry of Public Works for processing,” he stated. Plans are also in place for the adaptation of children’s and women’s health dispensaries, alongside the purchase of a mammogram valued at over €100,000 to improve women’s health services.

Dr. Vuk Niković echoed the commitment to enhancing healthcare conditions, emphasizing the need for all emergency units across Montenegro to be equipped and adapted to modern standards. “The idea is to ensure that all emergency medical units are accessible and equipped with modern facilities,” he said.

The Ministry of Health aims to establish a cohesive and technically advanced emergency medical system throughout the country. Dr. Niković announced that two more adapted emergency units are set to open before the end of the year, further expanding healthcare access in Montenegro.