Prishtina, 3 August 2026 – The Ombudsperson, Mr. Naim Qelaj, met with the Director of the University Hospital and Clinical Service of Kosovo (SHSKUK), Mr. Elvir Azizi, with whom he discussed the importance of strengthening cooperation between institutions in the function of protecting and promoting human rights.

The meeting addressed the issues of health protection, a right guaranteed by Article 51 of the Constitution, the health system, citizens’ access to safe and effective health services, as well as compliance with standards for the preservation and improvement of health through forms of health promotion and preventive activities, as well as the provision of quality health services.

The Ombudsperson emphasized the obligations of the SHSKUK to implement the obligations arising from the Law on Health, to respect the dignity and fundamental rights and freedoms of all citizens and residents of the country, guaranteeing equal access to health care.

Mr. Qelaj informed the attendees about the issues and problems that have been addressed and are being addressed by the Ombudsperson Institution, related to patients’ rights and those in the field of health, such as: non-functionality of the Health Information System (SISH), lack of functioning of the health insurance system, access to health services, lack of medicines from the essential list, and unequal and dignified treatment of patients. He underlined the readiness of the Ombudsperson Institution to continue cooperation with the SHSKUK, in addressing challenges affecting human rights, and advancing standards and services related to the health system.

Mr. Elvir Azizi announced the efforts of the SHSKUK to advance services to patients in accordance with the principle of inclusiveness and non-discrimination; achieving equal standards in healthcare for all citizens of the country. The interlocutors agreed to continue communication and mutual cooperation on issues of common interest and with the aim of improving respect for patients’ rights and increasing citizens’ trust in healthcare institutions.