Health & Pharmacies
Medical Services and Pharmacy Access in Kosovo
In Kosovo, obtaining medicine from pharmacies typically requires a doctor’s prescription. However, both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications are available at pharmacies, with expert medical advice provided. While it’s strongly recommended to have a prescription for specific medications, a few basic medicines can be purchased without one.
Pharmacy Hours and 24/7 Access in Kosovo
Pharmacies in Kosovo generally operate from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday through Friday, and often close earlier on Saturdays (until 1:00 PM). While most pharmacies are closed on Sundays, certain pharmacies, especially those located near hospitals and health centers, remain open throughout the day, including weekends. Additionally, a rotating system ensures that select pharmacies across cities are available 24/7 to guarantee citizens access to necessary medication at any time.
University Clinical Center of Kosovo: A Leading Public Hospital
The University Clinical Center of Kosovo (UCCK) is the largest public hospital in Prishtina, Kosovo. As a national hospital, UCCK serves a wide range of patients from within the city and beyond. While UCCK offers free healthcare services, the facility faces challenges due to limited funding and staff shortages. Kosovo, like many other countries in the Balkans, is experiencing a migration of medical professionals to Western nations, which impacts the availability of care. Despite these challenges, private hospitals in Kosovo offer high-quality healthcare services at relatively affordable prices, with modern facilities and attentive care.
Dental Care in Kosovo: Affordable Services for Foreigners
One of Kosovo’s standout medical services is dentistry, which is especially popular among European foreigners. Due to significantly lower prices compared to Western countries, many international visitors choose to undergo dental procedures in Kosovo. Kosovo boasts highly skilled dentists who provide quality care at a fraction of the cost found in Western Europe, making it a popular destination for dental tourism.