The Tirana Prosecution Office has formally charged former deputy director of QSUT, Brikena Qirjazi, along with several oncology specialists, including Edmond Gashi, Alketa Pere, Emiliano Lela, Drilona Kishta, and Halil Gashi. They are accused of “abuse of office” following an investigation into irregular practices affecting cancer patients at the country’s largest public hospital, local media reports.
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| From the left: Alketa Pere, Edmond Gashi and Drilona Kishta, source: Facebook |
Investigators allege that doctors and hospital personnel collaborated to direct patients diagnosed with tumors toward a private clinic owned by Gashi. This redirection was reportedly carried out for financial gain, raising serious concerns about ethics and patient exploitation within the public healthcare system.
Further findings revealed issues with critical medical infrastructure. A cobalt therapy device, installed at the Oncology Hospital to treat cancer patients, was reportedly left non-functional due to failure to meet technical conditions. This malfunction limited treatment options for patients, potentially exacerbating the impact of the alleged scheme.
The case has sparked widespread concern about oversight and accountability in Albania’s healthcare sector, particularly regarding the treatment of vulnerable patients. Authorities are expected to proceed with judicial hearings as the case moves forward in court.