Digital health and EU alignment: Moldova’s strategic leap in medical infrastructure
Moldova’s Ministry of Health will allocate over €30.6 million (approx. 600 million MDL) in 2026 to modernize medical infrastructure and acquire high-performance equipment.
Minister Emil Ceban announced the commitments during a press conference on December 30, emphasizing equitable access to modern services across all regions.
Strategic focus on oncology and high-tech treatment
A central pillar of the 2026 budget is the expansion of oncology services. The state will invest €2.3 million (45 million MDL) to purchase a state-of-the-art linear accelerator for radiotherapy.
Furthermore, a multi-year partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will launch a €45 million project to modernize the Oncology Institute. By 2026, Moldovan patients will have access to radioactive iodine treatment locally, eliminating the need for expensive travel abroad.
Primary care and family medicine expansion
Family medicine remains the core of the national health strategy, with the Primary Healthcare budget set to exceed €199 million (3.9 billion MDL). This represents a 14% increase compared to 2025.
The Ministry plans to expand national cancer screening programs and strengthen the national immunization calendar. Additional focus will be placed on developing palliative care, rehabilitation services, and improving medical access for people with special needs.
Accelerated digitalization and the "Voice of the Patient"
Digital transformation is set to reduce bureaucracy and increase transparency through the launch of unified electronic health records (EHR). In 2026, the Ministry will pilot digital medical certificates and telemedicine services.
A new mobile application, "Patient Voice," will also be implemented to collect direct feedback from citizens. "Digitalization means less paperwork for doctors and more quality time for patients," Minister Ceban stated.
Aligning with European Union health standards
State Secretary Angela Paraschiv highlighted that 2026 will be a decisive year for harmonizing national legislation with EU standards. This includes new regulations on occupational safety, tobacco products, and protecting workers from carcinogenic agents.
Authorities also plan to approve the National Plan for Public Health Emergencies (2026–2030). These steps are essential for Moldova's upcoming EU accession negotiations in the field of health and safety.
Reflecting on 2025: A year of decentralization
State Secretary Ion Prisăcaru reviewed the achievements of 2025, noting the successful decentralization of chemotherapy to five regional hospitals. In 2026, this network will expand to Soroca, Ștefan Vodă, Hâncești, Comrat, and Anenii Noi.
Major investments in 2025 included the inauguration of the Emergency Department in Bălți and the installation of CT scanners in several districts. The government also expanded the "Pharmacy in Your Village" project, which now supports 124 subsidized rural pharmacies.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
