# Kosovo oncology drug supply controversy

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/kosovo-oncology-drug-supply-controversy
> Updated: 2026-10-23T17:58:34.000Z. Sources: 15. Developments: 2.

A dispute has emerged in Kosovo regarding the availability of Palbociclib, a medication used to treat advanced hormone-positive breast cancer, following the death of a patient. The Renesansa patient organization alleged the woman died after being without therapy for approximately four months due to shortages at the Oncology Clinic and the high cost of private purchase, which can reach 1,800 euros.

Health Minister Arben Vitia and Oncology Clinic Director Ilir Kurtishi initially disputed these claims. Minister Vitia noted that shortages occur “from time to time” due to a doubling of demand for certain new medications. 

Subsequently, Director Kurtishi confirmed a temporary shortage of Palbociclib, explaining that the number of patients requiring treatment reached 80, which was double the original plan of 40 patients. While Kurtishi maintained the deceased patient was never without therapy, the shortage was attributed to unforeseen expenditures caused by the increased patient volume.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-23: Kosovo Oncology Clinic admits shortage of Palbociclib cancer drug

The Oncology Clinic in Kosovo admitted a shortage of the breast cancer drug Palbociclib due to patient numbers doubling the initial budget projections.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kosovo-oncology-clinic-admits-shortage-of-palbociclib-cancer-drug

### 2026-10-21: Kosovo health officials dispute cause of cancer patient death

Kosovo health officials are disputing claims by a patient organization that a woman died due to a four-month shortage of cancer medication.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kosovo-healthcare-challenges-highlighted-by-cancer-treatment-struggles

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Cite as: Kosovo oncology drug supply controversy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/kosovo-oncology-drug-supply-controversy