Global Framework

Healthpharm 2024 was held on 9, 10 and 11 April in Belgrade, Serbia, as part of the celebration of World Health Day (7 April) and the global campaign under the slogan:

‘MY HEALTH, MY RIGHT’

The right to health has been proclaimed as a fundamental human right, which implies access to health services, facilities and information necessary to achieve and maintain good physical and spiritual health.

Central theme

By choosing the central theme: ‘Western Balkans Common Market: A Business and Legal Platform for Healthcare and Pharma’, Healthpharm 2024 emphasized the need to regional cooperation.

First day

Keynote speech: ‘SERBIAN HEALTHCARE:
AN INVESTMENT IN THE FUTURE OF THE NATION’ was given by Prof. Dr. Vladimir Đukić, University of Belgrade – Faculty of Medicine, director of the Clinical Hospital Center (KBC) ‘Dr. Dragisa Misovic’.

According to the general opinion, most participants were attracted to the discussion on the topic: ‘Western Balkans E-health and E-pharma: How to use an AI for Social Good?’ (Panel I)

No less interesting were the subjects: ‘Quo vadis, the Private Health Insurance?’ (Panel II),

‘How to protect Companies from Fake Medicines Distribution on Western Balkans Common Market?’ (Panel III), and ‘A Quackery as Challenge for Business and Society’ (Panel IV)

Second day

The conference continued on the second day with: ‘Continuous Improvement of the Public Procurement Procedure in the Healthcare & Pharma’ (Panel V), ‘How to Buy and Sell Health & Pharma Business?’ (Panels VI-1, VI-2, VI-3, VI-4).

Third day

After two days of the conference organised at the Chamber of Commerce of the Republic of Serbia, the third day was held at the Faculty of Law of the University of Belgrade, where a vivid discussion took place on the following issues: ‘The Legal Framework for Vulnerable Patients Protection’ (Panel VII) and ‘The Complexity of Legal Relations in Healthcare’ (Panel VIII).

Perfect mix of knowledge sharing and networking

We were honoured to bring together more than 60 distinguished: keynote speakers, moderators and panelists from the SEE region to discuss the most pressing economic and social issues with a focus on healthcare and pharma. Over three exciting days, more than 200 attendees had the opportunity to enjoy brilliant sessions, get clear answers to the questions raised in the sessions, and engage in informal conversations with some of the most influential professionals from pharma, law firms, government and academia.

The three-day event comprised a series of keynote speeches and sessions, which offered profound insights into the present and future of the health and pharma landscape from the business, legal and tech perspective.

The brilliant discussions can be summarized as follows:

Panel I

Western Balkans E-health and E-pharma: How to use an AI for Social Good?

There is a willingness to embrace AI and the potential benefits it offers as powerful tool in the field of health protection. However, there is also recognition of its etical use and need for caution when it comes to the abuse of medical data. This is reflected in a clear emphasis on the importance of human – centric regulation and code of conduct, taking into account EU best practices in privacy and data protection. It is highlighted that AI will not replace medical doctors and pharmacists. However, those who do not use artificial intelligence will be replaced by professionals who are ready for continuous lifelong learning.

Panel II

Quo vadis, the Private Health Insurance?

Insurance industry representatives emphasized the significance of private health insurance, while acknowledging the underdeveloped state of this financial service in the Republic of Serbia. Insurers highlighted that they are willing and able to invest in digital transformation to enhance customer experience, and improve efficiency. This includes online enrollment platforms, mobile apps for claims management, and AI-driven chatbots for customer support.

Panel III

How to protect Companies from Fake Medicines Distribution on Western Balkans Common Market?

Policy regarding the distribution of fake medicines is crucial for safeguarding public health and maintaining the integrity of healthcare systems. It includes but is not limited to the following

Legislation and Regulation: Establish stringent laws and regulations to govern the production, importation, exportation, distribution, and sale of pharmaceuticals. This includes measures to explicitly criminalize the production and distribution of counterfeit medicines.

Quality Control and Standards: Implement robust quality control measures to ensure that all medicines meet strict standards of safety, efficacy, and quality. This includes proper inspection of manufacturing facilities, adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and regular testing of pharmaceutical products.