The European Union is helping Serbia improve its ability to respond to public health emergencies. A successful response requires teamwork across different sectors, trained professionals, clear plans, and defined roles for everyone involved. Through the “EU for Healthcare System in Serbia” project, the World Health Organization (WHO) is partnering with the Ministry of Health and UNDP to enhance Serbia’s emergency preparedness.
Understanding Local Risks to Protect Communities
The first step in managing public health emergencies is to identify the specific risks in different areas. In November 2023, 48 public health professionals participated in training on risk analysis using WHO’s methods. This training enabled them to assess public health threats across all 144 local self-governments in Serbia, ensuring that every municipality is included in the planning process.
These assessments utilized data from various fields, including health, environment, and geology. By gathering information from all levels of government, the country can gain a clearer understanding of the public health risks it may encounter during emergencies.
The assessments will contribute to Serbia’s National Disaster Risk Register, a crucial tool for planning and decision-making in emergencies. This register helps authorities track and manage risks, allowing for quicker and more effective responses to health threats throughout the country.
By providing insights into risks, available resources, and preparedness gaps, these assessments are vital for planning health emergency responses. Local governments and public health institutions can tailor their strategies to meet the specific needs of their communities, ensuring that Serbia is well-prepared to handle any public health emergency.
Through these collaborative efforts, the EU, WHO and UNDP are supporting Serbia to build a stronger healthcare system, enabling timely responses during crises to save lives across all local communities.