Institute Dr Simo Milošević, a prominent rehabilitation center in Montenegro, is poised to potentially secure a new four-year contract with Norwegian healthcare authorities after fulfilling the necessary requirements for a recent international tender. This development is crucial not only for the Institute but also for Montenegro’s health tourism sector, as Norwegian patients have long been one of its most significant international client bases.
The management of the Institute announced that it has resolved all outstanding tax obligations prior to the tender application deadline, which enabled it to obtain the required certification from Montenegro’s tax authorities. Executive Director Dr. Zoran Kovačević stated that approximately €7 million in tax-related liabilities was cleared, allowing the organization to qualify for participation in the tender process.
The relationship between the Institute and Norwegian patients extends beyond a typical healthcare services agreement. In February 2026, the Institute will celebrate 50 years of cooperation with Norwegian patients, a partnership that has contributed to establishing Igalo as one of Southeast Europe’s leading centers for rheumatology and rehabilitation. Over these decades, thousands of Norwegian patients have received treatment and rehabilitation services at this facility.
The recent tender encompasses both large seasonal rehabilitation groups and smaller patient cohorts. While Institute management applied for both categories, they acknowledged facing significant international competition. One challenge remains the incomplete modernization of accommodations and treatment facilities, particularly those traditionally used by Norwegian patients. Planned upgrades are part of a broader restructuring initiative aimed at modernizing medical equipment, enhancing accommodation standards, and improving long-term competitiveness.
The implications for Montenegro extend beyond healthcare services. The Norwegian program has historically provided stable foreign revenue streams, maintained year-round occupancy, and bolstered the country’s position within the expanding European medical tourism market. The return of substantial groups of Norwegian patients would offer a reliable demand source as Montenegro aims to diversify its tourism revenues beyond the conventional summer season.
As it enters this next phase, the Institute is in a stronger financial position compared to previous years. Following a period of restructuring and stabilization, management has detailed plans for facility modernization and operational enhancements intended to restore its historical status as a leading rehabilitation center in the Adriatic region. Previous reports have indicated an increase in patient numbers, improved financial outcomes, and renewed investment plans linked to this restructuring process.
The outcome of the tender is anticipated to attract attention from investors and tourism stakeholders as it will indicate Montenegro’s ability to capitalize on specialized healthcare services as a premium segment within tourism. A successful renewal would not only strengthen a relationship that has endured for half a century but could also pave the way for further expansion of medical tourism partnerships throughout Northern Europe.
