Govt to set up national cancer institute

Albania is planning to set up a national cancer institute, in an effort to improve how patients are diagnosed and treated.

Health Minister Evis Sala said the new body would become the country’s main centre for cancer care, research and medical training.

It would also coordinate a national oncology network, so patients outside Tirana can receive care under the same standards.

The government says more cancer medicines will be covered by the public reimbursement scheme next year.

An extra 1.5 billion leks is also planned for newer oncology drugs.

The ministry says it is expanding cancer treatment capacity, including radiotherapy equipment, PET scanning and brachytherapy.

Public hospitals are due to move to electronic systems from 1 August.