Croatia to help Armenia reform its healthcare system

by croatiaweek October 3, 2026 in News

ZAGREB, 3 October 2026 – Croatia is providing expertise to Armenia as the country works on reforms to its healthcare system, including the development of universal health insurance.

Croatian Health Minister Irena Hrstić discussed the cooperation during a meeting with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Yerevan.

The two sides discussed healthcare insurance reform, the contribution of Croatian experts and further cooperation in healthcare insurance, prevention and digital health.

Croatia is participating in a two-year EU-funded Twinning project focused on supporting Armenia’s health-system reform, the ministry said in a statement.

The project is valued at €1.5 million and is being implemented jointly by Croatia and Slovenia.

Croatian experts are expected to work with Armenian counterparts on areas including legislation, healthcare financing, digital systems and human resources.

It is the first Twinning project that Croatia is implementing in Armenia.

The cooperation is intended to allow Armenia to draw on experience from EU member states while developing a healthcare model adapted to its own national needs.

During her visit, Hrstić also held meetings with Armenian health officials and gave presentations at universities.

The cooperation comes as Armenia works on the development of universal healthcare coverage and changes to the way its health system is organised and financed.

Croatia’s involvement reflects the country’s growing participation in EU-supported technical cooperation programmes with countries outside the European Union.

The project will involve Croatian experts sharing experience from the development and operation of Croatia’s healthcare system.

Areas of cooperation include prevention, digital healthcare and the organisation and financing of health services.

The Croatian Health Ministry said the experience will be shared openly while recognising that Armenia will develop its system according to its own priorities.

The project is expected to continue for two years.

For Croatia, the programme provides an opportunity to contribute its institutional and professional experience to a healthcare reform process in another country while strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two states.

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