Mjekë

Mjekë is the Albanian term for physicians. They are medical professionals who diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses, manage patient care, and promote health. Mjekë may work as general practitioners or as specialists in fields such as internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, or family medicine, among others. They collaborate with nurses, pharmacists, and other health workers, and provide care across hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. They can be involved in preventive care, screening, vaccination programs, and public health initiatives. The work often includes coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and making decisions about treatment plans, referrals, and follow-up care. Ethical obligations include patient confidentiality, informed consent, safety, and evidence-based practice.

Education and licensing: Becoming a mjek requires completing a university-level medical degree followed by residency or specialization training. Practicing physicians must meet licensing requirements and professional standards set by national health authorities and the relevant professional body. In Albania, the profession is overseen by the Urdhri i Mjekëve (Order of Physicians) and the Ministry of Health, which set licensing, ethics, and continuing education requirements.

Context: In Albanian-speaking regions, mjekë work throughout the public and private sectors and are central to health systems, supporting access to care in urban centers and rural areas alike.