In December, the partners of the SANITAS project met in Nova Gorica for the third project partners’ meeting, hosted by Zdravstveni dom Nova Gorica, within the framework of the Interreg VI-A Italy–Slovenia Programme 2021–2027. 

The meeting provided an important opportunity to share updates on project progress and to coordinate upcoming activities, further strengthening cross-border cooperation among the project partners. 

During the meeting, partners presented the current developments of the project and the activities planned for the coming months. Particular attention was given to the preparation of procedures for the launch of Italian and Slovenian language courses, scheduled to start in early 2026. The courses will be addressed to healthcare professionals and stakeholders involved in emergency management, with the aim of improving communication and coordination in cross-border situations. 

Another key topic discussed was the initiation of preparatory activities for the analysis of primary healthcare systems in Italy and Slovenia, which represents a fundamental basis for the development of the future cross-border protocol. Partners shared the planned workflow and next steps to ensure a comprehensive and jointly developed analysis. 

Some partners have already taken concrete steps in the implementation of the project: the Javni zavod Gasilska enota Nova Gorica and Zdravstveni dom Nova Gorica have already proceeded with the purchase of part of the equipment foreseen by the project, contributing to the strengthening of operational capacities for emergency response in the cross-border area. 

The meeting also addressed ongoing and planned communication and dissemination activities. Among the upcoming initiatives, the possible participation of the project in a joint civil protection exercise in 2026 was discussed, which will provide an important opportunity to test the developed solutions in the field and to showcase the acquired equipment. 

Finally, partners highlighted the importance of strengthening synergies with other projects and European networks, in order to increase the impact of project activities and to promote the exchange of good practices. 

The meeting concluded with the definition of next steps and future coordination moments among the partners, reaffirming the role of the SANITAS project as a key instrument for enhancing cross-border cooperation in the healthcare sector. 

The SANITAS project is co-financed by the European Union under the Interreg VI-A Italy–Slovenia Programme and aims to improve joint preparedness and response to health emergencies in the cross-border area.