Health Tourism in Serbia

Companies wishing to operate in the publicly controlled healthcare sector must complete the necessary permits and licensing procedures under healthcare laws. Even companies that intend only to promote health tourism services through representative offices without directly providing healthcare services in Serbia are subject to strict licensing procedures. According to relevant laws (healthcare law, patient rights law, etc.), companies without a permit to operate in the healthcare field cannot access, view, or transfer patient files to third parties.

For companies to operate in the health tourism sector, they must collaborate with a healthcare institution registered under Serbian law and sign an agreement. In this arrangement, patients are first examined by a doctor at the partnered healthcare institution, and based on the doctor's recommendations, the health tourism company coordinates between the patients and the healthcare providers in the destination country. Alternatively, companies can employ a doctor licensed under Serbian law within their organization. Planning and conducting healthcare-related activities in collaboration with Serbia's relevant institutions are highly recommended.

Based on the provided information, a person or company looking to invest in health tourism in Serbia would likely require legal assistance in the following areas:

1. Permits and Licensing:

   Navigating the strict licensing and permit requirements under Serbian healthcare laws is crucial. Companies must ensure compliance to operate, even if their activities are limited to health tourism promotion without direct healthcare service provision.

   
   

2. Legal Agreements with Healthcare Institutions:

   Collaborating with a healthcare institution registered under Serbian law is mandatory. Legal support will be required to draft and negotiate agreements ensuring compliance with local regulations.

   
   

3. Employment of Licensed Medical Professionals:

   Companies may choose to employ doctors licensed under Serbian law. Assistance will be needed to navigate employment regulations and ensure proper licensure for the hired professionals.

   
   

4. Data Privacy and Patient Rights Compliance:

   Serbian laws strictly regulate access to and transfer of patient files. Legal advice is essential to avoid breaches of healthcare and patient rights laws, especially regarding data handling and third-party coordination.

   
   

5. Health Tourism Coordination:

   Support will be necessary to structure operations legally, including coordinating between patients, Serbian healthcare institutions, and destination countries for treatments.

   
   

6. Understanding Regulatory Frameworks:

   Comprehensive guidance on Serbian laws such as the Healthcare Law and Patient Rights Law will be critical to ensure full compliance in all aspects of health tourism operations.

   
   

7. Strategic Planning and Institutional Collaboration:

   Legal advice will be beneficial for planning and executing health tourism activities in collaboration with relevant Serbian institutions, minimizing risks and ensuring alignment with regulatory expectations.

   
   

This multifaceted legal support will help health tourism investors navigate Serbia’s regulated environment effectively and capitalize on opportunities in this sector.