One of the most significant investments in the capital’s hospital infrastructure is now nearing completion. The “Queen Geraldine” Maternity, valued not only for the services it provides—caring for 20,000 patients annually—but also for its historical importance as a building, is in the final stages of reconstruction. This includes the expansion of its capacity with a new building, featuring technology that meets European standards.
Prime Minister Edi Rama visited the new maternity today, where the modern part of the complex is set to open soon, offering optimal conditions and state-of-the-art equipment. At the same time, reconstruction of the old section will also begin.
The new infrastructure will include a doubling of intensive care unit beds, with 360 beds for patients; 7 operating rooms and 6 delivery rooms; an emergency room with optimal conditions for triage; a modernized neonatology service; and a new Prematurity Center for the care of mothers with high-risk pregnancies and premature infants.
“The reconstruction of the ‘Queen Geraldine’ Maternity is being carried out in two phases. The first phase, which involves the construction of the main building covering approximately 6,000 square meters, was completed by the end of last year. The second phase, which focuses on the reconstruction of the neonatology service areas, has now begun. In the new building, there are three floors above ground and one basement level dedicated to the main services: obstetrics and gynecology, along with imaging services. On the left side, the newly built Women’s Center is located, while the emergency services, along with triage, are organized on the first floor. The second floor is dedicated to obstetrics services. This is a state-funded investment,” explained Minister of Health and Social Protection Albana Koçiu, who also mentioned that the construction of the next building forms part of the second phase.
“In that building, we are establishing the neonatology service, completing the entire hospital complex. In phase two, in addition to the neonatology service, we will have the Prematurity Center, divided into two clinics. Highly qualified medical staff will have access to a maternity unit that meets the highest European standards,” she added.