Health mediators will now also work in hospitals

Health mediators will now be able to provide assistance in inpatient medical facilities as well. This is provided for by amendments to Ordinance No. 1, which regulates their activities, published in the latest issue of the State Gazette.

The new provisions expand the scope of the mediators’ work, creating an opportunity for them to facilitate communication between patients and medical professionals within the hospital environment. In practice, this means they will explain treatment procedures, assist in better understanding prescribed therapies, and support patients in their interactions with medical teams.

The change is aimed at overcoming one of the common barriers in the healthcare system—the lack of trust and poor understanding between patient and physician, which in many cases leads to tension, refusal of treatment, or non-compliance with prescribed therapy.

The Ministry of Health emphasizes that the role of health mediators is particularly important in situations of increased health risk, such as the current measles outbreaks in certain regions of the country. Through them, vulnerable groups are reached more easily, ensuring better awareness regarding prevention and treatment.

The amendments to the ordinance also introduce a new position: “Regional Coordinator of Health Mediators.” The goal is to improve the organization and coordination of their activities at the regional level, including during epidemics and other health crises.