PRIORITY 3 - Support & upgrade of health & social services
The JA-CommCare project promotes equal access to cancer prevention, early diagnosis and care across the cross-border area between Greece and North Macedonia. It directly addresses one of the most pressing health challenges in the region—cancer—by combining medical innovation, public engagement and professional training to strengthen healthcare systems on both sides of the border.
Focusing on Central Macedonia and the Vardar region, the project introduces a comprehensive approach that brings together clinical excellence and community outreach. By investing in modern diagnostic equipment, organizing mobile cancer screenings and implementing awareness and education campaigns, JA-CommCare aims to reduce cancer-related mortality and improve access to quality healthcare services, especially for vulnerable and underserved populations.
The partnership brings together four organisations with complementary expertise. The Cancer Hospital of Thessaloniki “Theagenio” acts as Lead Beneficiary, managing the project and leading the procurement of diagnostic and laboratory equipment that enhance the hospital’s cancer screening and diagnostic capacity. The General Hospital with Extended Activity – Kavadarci acquires equipment for the Operating Room and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to improve local services. The Association of Friends of the Anti-Cancer Theagenio Hospital “Alexandros Simeonidis” leads community-based activities — organising awareness campaigns, patient guidance services and joint volunteer actions to strengthen early detection and support patients during treatment. The University Clinic for Radiotherapy and Oncology in Skopje upgrades mobile compact ultrasound system and develops a training curriculum for oncology professionals on modern diagnostic and therapeutic techniques.
The project’s target groups include women, older citizens and vulnerable groups with limited access to preventive care, as well as oncologists, general practitioners and medical staff working in regional hospitals. Local communities, patient associations and civil society organisations also play a key role in awareness and dissemination.
Expected results are tangible: at least 5,000 people per year will benefit from improved diagnostic capacity and preventive care, while 180 professionals will gain new skills through structured training. By enhancing healthcare quality, professional capacity and public awareness, the project contributes to the European Cancer Plan and the EU’s objective for equitable access to health services, leaving behind a sustainable, community-centered model of cancer care that strengthens resilience and cohesion across borders.
Lead Beneficiary
Project Beneficiaries