Black Book Research has released its highly anticipated 2025 Black Book of Global Healthcare IT, featuring a detailed study on the adoption of Electronic Health Records (EHR) and Healthcare Information Systems across the Balkan region. This focused report provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s journey toward healthcare digitalization, highlighting the varying stages of EHR implementation among Balkan nations. By examining progress, challenges, and emerging trends, the study emphasizes the transformative impact of both local and global vendors in shaping the future of healthcare IT infrastructure. One of the standout findings reveals that 22% of healthcare providers in the Balkans plan to integrate AI-driven analytics into their EHR systems by 2027, while 30% of healthcare institutions aim for full interoperability with EU digital health standards within the same period.

Government initiatives and international collaboration have been instrumental in advancing EHR adoption across the region. For instance, Slovenia’s centralized health data exchange system has set a benchmark by enabling real-time information sharing among healthcare providers, improving coordination and care delivery. Similarly, Turkey’s e-Nabız system exemplifies innovation through its mobile platform, offering patients seamless access to their health records and promoting active patient engagement. These tailored strategies demonstrate how technological innovation, when aligned with strong leadership and regulatory frameworks, can accelerate digital transformation in healthcare, laying the groundwork for a more integrated and efficient system.

As Balkan nations increasingly align with EU digital health standards, they are making significant investments in interoperability and scalable IT frameworks. These efforts are fostering the development of a unified, data-driven healthcare ecosystem, enabling cross-border care and advanced analytics. Such advancements are not only improving the quality of care within individual countries but are also enhancing the region’s ability to participate in the broader European digital health landscape. According to Doug Brown, President of Black Book Research, these initiatives underscore the pivotal role of innovation in modernizing healthcare, proving that strategic investments in technology can deliver tangible benefits for both patients and providers while driving regional cohesion in healthcare delivery.