An evaluation of a chronic disease prevention program in the Republika Srpska (RS) of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Introduction: In 2002 the Republika Srpska of Bosnia and Herzegovina adopted goals for reducing the burden of chronic disease through a new screening program in its publicly funded health centers (“Dom Zdravljas”). This study evaluated the first year of program implementation.

Methods: The evaluation used in-depth interviews with 25 key stakeholders and in-person interviews with 1004 citizens.

Results: We found that many health care providers and citizens were unaware of the program. In addition, there was inadequate financing for the program, because the Health Insurance Fund does not collect revenue for uninsured citizens, more than 20 per cent of the population.

Conclusion: We recommend improved co-ordination among public and private organizations involved in implementation; increased promotion of the program with health care providers and citizens; and increased financial resources for providing screening for uninsured citizens.