Hospitals are particularly affected in intensive care, pediatrics, neonatal, surgical, and internal medicine departments, putting pressure on the healthcare system.
In Zagreb, 138 nurses have left their positions in the first eight months of 2025, while Osijek reports a shortfall of 300 nurses.
On any given day, around 300 nurses are on sick leave, further straining hospital operations.
Authorities and the Croatian Chamber of Nurses highlight the urgent need to increase enrollment in nursing schools and improve working conditions to prevent further staff shortages and maintain the quality of healthcare services.
