Republika Srpska eases access to mental health services

In observance of World Mental Health Day, organizations in Republika Srpska held a panel discussion titled ‘Budimo tu jedni za druge’ (Let us be there for one another) at the Filip Višnjić National Library. The event, organized by the Association of Psychologists of Republika Srpska and local social work counseling services, focused on the importance of mutual support and recognizing when professional intervention is necessary.

Concurrently, the Republic of Srpska Health Insurance Fund (FZO) announced new regulations to improve healthcare access. Primary level mental health services at health centers are now available to insured individuals without a referral from a family doctor. This change aims to reduce stigmatization, prevent the worsening of mental conditions, and decrease the workload on family physicians.

Additionally, the Fund updated the validity periods for various medical referrals. Referrals for primary level diagnostic services, such as X-rays, laboratory tests, mammography, and ultrasound, have been extended from 30 to 90 days. Referrals for specialist consultations remain valid for 180 days.