Moldovan health minister says primary medicine, prevention, digitalization key priorities for 2026

The strengthening of primary healthcare, expansion of oncological screening and immunization programmes, development of rehabilitation services and palliative care at the community level, as well as the acceleration of the digitalization of the health system will be the main priorities of the Health Ministry in 2026. Health Minister Emil Ceban has made statements to this effect at a news conference.

According to the minister, family medicine will stay the "cornerstone" of the health system and investments in this area will ensure real access to quality medical services for all citizens.

"Family medicine stays our central priority in 2026. We will continue to strengthen primary healthcare services, so that each citizen has access to quality medical services, close to their place of residence. Investments in primary medicine mean prevention, early diagnosis and a more efficient and sustainable system," said Emil Ceban.

The minister emphasized that, in parallel, authorities would place increased focus on prevention through the expansion of screening programmes and observance of the national immunization schedule.

"We aim to expand national screening programmes, strengthen immunization, as well as develop rehabilitation services, palliative care and community services with better access for people with special needs and their families," the minister specified.

Another strategic direction targets the development of medical infrastructure, including regional hospitals and strategic institutions.

"Regional hospitals are not just construction projects. They are health security projects that will provide performance emergency services, modern operating blocks, high-precision diagnostics and safe treatments, regardless of the region the patient lives in," said Emil Ceban.

At the same time, the 2026 year will mark an acceleration of the digitalization of the health system, a process the minister considers indispensable.

"Digitalization is no longer an option, but a necessity. We will speed up the implementation of the electronic health record, modernization of information systems in primary care and hospitals, as well as the launch of tools that reduce bureaucracy and enhance transparency," said the minister.

Simultaneously, the Health Ministry will continue aligning the medical system with European Union standards.

"Our strategic goal is a health system compatible with the European Union’s one. In 2026, we will continue adjusting the legislation, implementing modern quality and patient safety standards, as well as preparing for accession negotiations in the health sector," concluded Emil Ceban.

At the same press conference, state secretaries presented data on the achievements of the Health Ministry in 2025.