The budget allocated by the Montenegrin government to the Fund for Health Insurance (FZO) for 2026 is under scrutiny amid warnings of a potential deficit. While the FZO claims that the budget of 487.12 million euros is rationally allocated and poses no risk to insured patients, former director Sead Čirgić raises concerns regarding a possible shortfall of up to 50 million euros.
According to the FZO, this year’s budget represents a 7.62 percent increase, or 34.49 million euros, compared to the 2025 budget. A significant portion, 197 million euros, is earmarked for medications and medical supplies, with 25 million euros designated for private pharmacies and the remainder directed to Montefarm. The FZO states that the projected budget reflects a trend of rising costs for medicines and medical supplies, which have increased by approximately 20.23 percent compared to the previous year.
Despite these assurances, Čirgić, who held the FZO director position for over four years, critiques the budget as undervalued when compared to actual expenditures from 2025. He points out that the annual growth rate of health expenditure is about 10 percent, indicating that the proposed budget is insufficient to meet these increasing costs.
He further warns that the expected effects of ongoing programs may mitigate the growth rate, projecting it to remain between 7 to 10 percent. This scenario could result in a funding gap estimated at 35 to 50 million euros.
In response to concerns about the government’s recent approval of an additional 30 million euros to secure essential medications and supplies for the remainder of the year, the FZO insists that the 2026 budget has been thoroughly planned. They acknowledge the possibility of deviations from allocated funds throughout the year but emphasize that adjustments will be made to ensure comprehensive healthcare coverage for all insured individuals.
The FZO has expressed confidence that with ongoing cooperation among the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, and the health fund, they can maintain stable access to medications and medical supplies.
Čirgić believes that the health system will continue to be a high priority for the government next year, primarily due to the cumulative dissatisfaction among patients and the public. Nevertheless, he forecasts that without substantial reforms, patient experiences will not improve, leading to continued long waiting lists and financial burdens placed on patients seeking healthcare.
He does not anticipate significant shortages of medications disrupting the system, as proactive measures will be implemented to address any emerging issues. However, he highlights the upcoming election year as a critical factor influencing budgetary decisions.
To ensure financial stability, the government plans to allow for borrowing of up to 3.1 billion euros according to the budget law for 2026, a move Čirgić describes as unprecedented. He notes that the projected revenues for the year are set at 3.08 billion euros, raising concerns about the sustainability of such borrowing practices.
In conclusion, while the FZO maintains that the budget is sound and will meet the needs of insured individuals, experts like Čirgić urge caution, emphasizing the importance of accurate budgeting in the face of rising healthcare costs and the potential for increased public discontent.
