My mother always dreamed of becoming a medical doctor but was not able to fulfil this dream. My sister and I were fortunate enough to achieve that dream – and in a way, made our mother’s dream come true. However, despite the need for improved healthcare in Albania, gender inequality and other challenges made it impossible for us to practice there. Engaging with Albania from a distance through a diaspora organisation allows us to contribute to our homeland's well-being in the best way we can.

Dr med. Aurora Dollenberg, specialist for Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, medical psychotherapist and chair of the AMFE board of directors.

Access to healthcare services for women in Albania remains significantly lower compared to men. This particularly affects the older generation of Albanian women. AMFE has recognised this disparity and is working to reach out to women, especially elderly women, to address these healthcare gaps. 
 
Cancer treatment poses additional challenges for women in Albania. The country's sole medical centre for cancer is in the university hospital in Tirana, making it difficult for women living outside the capital to access treatment. The high costs of healthcare services further exacerbate the situation as many women who earn modest incomes must weigh the financial burden of cancer screenings against their limited earnings.

Together with its local partner Europa Donna – The European Breast Cancer Coalition, AMFE has undertaken several measures to improve the health situation of Albanian women. These measures include producing cancer education material in Albanian language for medical staff and the public, and organising face-to-face information events. These events took place at the university hospital in Tirana, public high schools and in public spaces frequented by older women.
 
Additionally, the two organisations conducted webinars to train medical staff and facilitate doctor-patient consultations. These activities aim to enhance cancer education and early diagnosis, improve access to screening and treatment, and to provide cancer aftercare and psychotherapeutic services.

When we conduct events in Albania, whether at universities or public schools, I am always met with the curious eyes of young people. I feel a deep responsibility to set a positive example and inspire this young generation, who continue to face the same challenges I encountered during my medical studies in Albania.

Dr med. Aurora Dollenberg