Modern medical equipment for women’s health installed at Mostar Health Center through the Before Time project
As part of the Interreg VI-A IPA Program Croatia – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Montenegro, the Mostar Health Center has successfully procured and installed advanced medical equipment aimed at improving the quality and accessibility of women’s healthcare services. These activities were implemented within the EU-funded project Before Time, which focuses on the secondary prevention of cervical cancer.
Enhanced Diagnostic Capacity at the Department for Women’s Health
Thanks to the project, several critical pieces of medical technology have been delivered and installed at the Department for Women’s Health. The following table summarizes the equipment acquired through this initiative:
| Equipment Type | Purpose and Quantity |
|---|---|
| State-of-the-art ultrasound machines | Two units for enhanced diagnostic capacity |
| Modern gynaecological examination chair | Improved patient comfort and accessibility |
| Autoclave | Safe sterilization of medical instruments |
The newly acquired equipment enables enhanced diagnostic capacity and contributes to more efficient and effective screening, thereby directly supporting the early detection and prevention of cervical cancer.
Professional and Patient Impact
“With this procurement, we have reached the highest level of efficiency in providing women’s healthcare. The new equipment not only eases the daily workload for our staff but significantly improves diagnostic precision across various conditions,” stated Dr. Martina Vrdoljak, head of the Women’s Health Department at the Mostar Health Center.
The improvements are also felt by the service users. “I felt truly comfortable and well cared for during the examination. The quality of service with the new equipment exceeded all my expectations. A heartfelt compliment to the entire staff for offering this level of service in a public healthcare facility,” said A.O. (born 1999), a patient at the center.
Cross-Border Cooperation and Future Goals
The “Before Time” project unites partners from Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina with a shared mission to raise awareness, promote early detection, and prevent cervical cancer through coordinated medical and educational activities. With this investment, the Mostar Health Center strengthens its commitment to women’s health and demonstrates how EU cross-border cooperation initiatives can bring concrete improvements to local communities.