UPMC Expands Global Reach With New Cancer Center in Croatia

ZABOK, Croatia — UPMC marks a significant milestone in expanding multinational access to its world-class cancer network with the grand opening of UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Croatia. Located on the campus of Zabok General Hospital and Croatian Veterans Hospital, approximately 25 miles from the Croatian capital of Zagreb and near the Slovenian border, the new UPMC Hillman brings advanced cancer treatments and cutting-edge diagnostics to people in Croatia and surrounding countries.

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at Zabok General Hospital is UPMC’s first endeavor in Croatia, a collaboration between UPMC and Croatian health leaders. The center offers comprehensive cancer services, including radiation oncology, medical oncology and PET-CT diagnostics, significantly improving access to high-quality cancer care in the region.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by the Croatian Minister of Health, Minister of Foreign Affairs, representatives from the U.S. Embassy in Croatia and leaders from UPMC, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and UPMC International.

“We are honored to bring the Life Changing Medicine of UPMC to Croatia,” said Joel Nelson, M.D., executive vice president of UPMC and president of UPMC International. “UPMC has collaborated with the Croatian Health Ministry and key leaders to understand and address the unique health care needs of the region. This new center will provide local access to world-class cancer care, supporting the Croatian health system's efforts to advance cancer prevention, detection and treatment.”

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at Zabok General Hospital is the sixth UPMC Hillman Cancer Center located in Europe — joining nearly 80 centers within the international UPMC Hillman network across the northeast United States, Italy, Ireland and now Croatia. 

With nearly 20 years of experience delivering international oncology care, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center works closely with local governments to ensure that both public and private patients can receive treatment at UPMC facilities.

“Our center is powered by a dedicated team of skilled and compassionate physicians and staff members who have worked tirelessly to design and build comprehensive oncology care that is unique in this region,” said Elizabeth Wild, president, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. “We look forward to collaborating with the Health Ministry and local hospitals and physicians to inspire hope, deliver state-of-the-art care and propel innovation to impact the lives of cancer patients in Croatia and beyond.”

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is internationally recognized for its expertise in evidence-based treatments and clinical trials, offering options that were previously unavailable in local communities. The new center in Croatia will fuel its mission to advance life-saving cancer treatment through groundbreaking research, innovation and global collaboration — creating access to care for those who need it most.