Dr Brian Alvarez joined a conference in Belgrade bringing together patients, healthcare professionals and Ministry representatives to discuss priorities for the country’s transplantation system.

Collaboration between patients, healthcare teams and institutions was at the heart of a conference held in Belgrade on 25 September by the patient association Donorstvo je herojstvo (“Organ Donation is an Act of Heroism”). Dr Brian Alvarez, organ donation expert at DTI Foundation, took part in the event, which focused on improving Serbia’s organ donation and transplantation system.

The conference provided an opportunity to consider the country’s priorities alongside European experience and good practices. Discussions addressed donor hospital organisation, the legal and strategic frameworks supporting donation and transplantation, and psychological support for patients and families.

The exchange highlighted the importance of including patients’ voices in the development of the system. Their needs and experiences, combined with professional expertise and institutional involvement, offer complementary perspectives to guide improvements.

DTI Foundation thanks the organising association for the invitation and the opportunity to contribute to this dialogue.

Watch the full conference in English.