WBA Partner, YWCA celebrates key budget approvals
We are proud to celebrate the significant achievements of our World Breast Alliance partner, YWCA of Albania, in championing women’s health and well-being. Join the alliance supporting women worldwide by clicking here, and read on to learn more about these inspiring accomplishments.
Pictured: Dona Godaj, Majlinda Nanaj and Klea Prifti at theLabor, Social Affairs and Health Committee hearing for the 2025 draft budget in Albania.
2024: A Landmark year for women’s health rights in Albania
With 16 years of relentless advocacy and collaboration, YWCA of Albania has reached a groundbreaking milestone in the fight for women’s health rights:
Provision of wigs and prostheses for women undergoing treatment
The Albanian government has approved funding for wigs and breast prostheses for women undergoing mastectomies and chemotherapy. These essential services will support the emotional and psychological recovery of patients, providing dignity and hope during their fight against breast cancer.
Why these achievements matter
Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers diagnosed among Albanian women. The financial and emotional burden on patients and their families has been immense, compounded by limited access to critical healthcare resources.
This funding addresses key gaps in the healthcare system, ensuring equity and dignity for countless women. YWCA’s advocacy, backed by patient testimonies and a collaborative meeting with stakeholders on October 18, 2024, played a pivotal role in securing these advancements.
What’s next?
YWCA of Albania continues to work tirelessly to address other pressing needs for women battling breast cancer:
Equipping the University Hospital Center of Tirana (QSUT) with advanced diagnostic equipment: Advocating for investments in a PET scanner and two accelerators to enable early detection and comprehensive treatment.
Simplified disability benefit procedures: Streamlining KEMP applications to occur every three years, reducing administrative burdens on patients.
Comprehensive medication coverage: Ensuring all women have access to essential medications, regardless of cost.
Development of a service map: Providing a roadmap of financial, social, emotional, and psychological support services for breast cancer patients.
Certified medical professionals: Strengthening patient care by ensuring that medical professionals receive the highest levels of training and certification.
Gratitude and Hope
These achievements would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our partners, stakeholders, and the Albanian government.
As we celebrate this progress, YWCA of Albania remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for better healthcare policies and services. Together, we can build a future where every woman has access to the resources and care she needs to face breast cancer with courage and dignity.
