As Serbia builds the digital backbone for its future health infrastructure, the changes will benefit patients, employers, and providers alike, setting the stage for a more interoperable and efficient era of healthcare.
Serbia is accelerating its transition toward a fully digital, European‑aligned healthcare ecosystem. Recent and upcoming reforms are reshaping how health data is exchanged, how institutions communicate, and how the country participates in broader European health initiatives.
Digitalising Sick Leave Processing
One of the most significant shifts is the move from paper‑based sick‑leave documentation to the new “e‑Sick Leave–Employer” digital platform, introduced through Serbia’s Act on the Exchange of Data, Documents and Notifications in Cases of Temporary Incapacity for Work.
Effective 1 January 2026, this mandatory system:
- Automates communication between healthcare providers, employers, and the Republic Health Insurance Fund (RFZO)
- Eliminates paper forms
- Reduces administrative workloads
- Improves transparency and processing speed
- Introduces fines for employers who fail to comply
The shift marks a foundational step in Serbia’s broader health digitalisation agenda.
Next‑Generation Digital Health Tools
Serbia is also preparing for large‑scale upgrades that will introduce:
- Electronic Health Records (EHRs) across the system
- Interoperable data systems to connect all institutions
- Digital referrals, prescriptions, diagnostics, and scheduling
- More efficient, paper‑free workflows
These enhancements are expected to improve care coordination and reduce inefficiencies. However, digital literacy gaps mean that hybrid communication methods will remain necessary during the transition.
Opening the Door to EU Health Funding
From 1 January 2026, both public and private Serbian health institutions gained access to EU funding programmes.
Eligible funding areas include:
- Early diagnosis and treatment of major diseases
- Mental health service development
- Strategic medicine and stockpile initiatives
- Participation in the European Health Data Space
This alignment strengthens Serbia’s integration into Europe’s health policy framework while providing new opportunities for investment and system development.
A Modern, Connected Health Landscape Ahead
Combined, these digital and EU‑aligned reforms signal a strategic leap toward a more transparent, coordinated, and technologically advanced healthcare system. As Serbia builds the digital backbone for its future health infrastructure, the changes will benefit patients, employers, and providers alike, setting the stage for a more interoperable and efficient era of healthcare. To understand the impact this will have on you as an employer speak to one of our experts on the ground:
Ranka Barjaktarević
International Affairs and Personal Insurance Manager
T +381 60 0254 821
