Montenegro’s rehabilitation centre, the Institute Dr Simo Milošević, is optimistic that it will secure a new four-year contract with Norwegian healthcare authorities after successfully meeting all requirements to participate in a recently completed international tender. The outcome is strategically important for both the institution and Montenegro’s broader health tourism sector, given that Norwegian patients have represented one of the Institute’s most important international client groups for decades.
The Institute’s management confirmed that all outstanding tax obligations were settled shortly before the application deadline, allowing the organization to obtain the necessary certification from Montenegro’s tax authorities and formally qualify for the tender process. According to Executive Director Dr. Zoran Kovačević, the Institute cleared approximately €7 million in accumulated tax-related liabilities, creating the conditions required to compete for the contract.
The Norwegian connection represents far more than a standard healthcare services contract. In February 2026, the Institute marked 50 years of cooperation with Norwegian patients, a relationship that has helped establish Igalo as one of the most recognized rheumatology and rehabilitation centres in Southeast Europe. Over those five decades, thousands of Norwegian patients have undergone treatment and rehabilitation at the facility.
The tender reportedly covers both large seasonal rehabilitation groups and smaller patient cohorts. Institute management applied for both categories despite acknowledging strong international competition. One challenge remains the incomplete modernization of accommodation and treatment facilities, particularly sections traditionally used by Norwegian patients. Planned upgrades form part of a broader restructuring programme intended to modernize medical equipment, improve accommodation standards and strengthen long-term competitiveness.
For Montenegro, the significance extends beyond healthcare. The Norwegian programme historically generated stable foreign revenue streams, supported year-round occupancy and strengthened the country’s position within the growing European medical tourism market. The return of large-scale Norwegian patient groups would provide a predictable source of demand at a time when Montenegro is seeking to diversify tourism revenues beyond the traditional summer leisure season.
The Institute enters the next phase from a stronger financial position than in previous years. Following a period of restructuring and stabilization, management has outlined plans for facility modernization and operational improvements aimed at restoring the institution’s historic role as a leading rehabilitation centre in the Adriatic region. Earlier reports indicated rising patient numbers, improved financial performance and renewed investment plans tied to the restructuring process.
The tender outcome is expected to be closely watched by investors and tourism stakeholders because it will serve as an indicator of whether Montenegro can successfully leverage specialized healthcare services as a higher-value tourism segment. A successful renewal would reinforce a relationship that has survived for half a century and could provide a foundation for further expansion of medical tourism partnerships across Northern Europe.
