Signing of the Banja Luka Declaration at the regional meeting of Faculties of Medicine’s Deans in Banja Luka
The Regional Meeting of Faculties of Medicine’s Deans in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina, that took place on 21st and 22nd March, resulted in signing the Banja Luka Declaration of Strengthening Family Medicine in Higher Medical Education. The declaration acknowledges the prevalence of noncommunicable diseases and emphasizes multidisciplinary management and preventive measures. It highlights the importance of universal health coverage and draws on WHO guidance and resolutions. The declaration recognizes family medicine as an independent specialty and commits to enhancing its progress through international collaboration, research initiatives, mentorship, academic exchange, and policy dialogues. Ultimately, it aims to inspire policymakers to prioritize family medicine, contributing to a robust healthcare system and better health outcomes for all.
Dr. Hans Henry P. Kluge, the Regional Director of WHO European Region, addressed the Regional Meeting of Faculties of Medicine’s Deans. He highlighted the importance of strengthening primary health care and essential public health functions in achieving Universal Health Coverage, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Kluge emphasized the need to support Family Medicine education and outlined WHO/Europe's strategy to strengthen primary health care based on lessons learned from the pandemic. He discussed the challenges faced by health systems, including workforce shortages and mental health issues among health workers, and presented urgent actions outlined in WHO/Europe's report. Dr. Kluge stressed the importance of investing in the health workforce, innovation in health care delivery, and supporting youth in pursuing careers in health care. He encouraged international collaboration, research in family medicine, interdisciplinary learning, and advocacy for effective health care policies. Dr. Kluge concluded by highlighting the pivotal role of the attendees in shaping the future of health systems and reiterated WHO's full support.
Dean of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Banka Luka prof. dr. sc. med. Ranko Škrbić and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Ljubljana prof. dr. Igor Švab.
Address of Dr. Hans Henry P. Kluge, the Regional Director of WHO European Region