The background
In Romania, Tulcea County stretches across a remarkable landscape of channels and lagoons. The Danube Delta covers about one-third of the county and contributes to the sparse population, with most residents scattered across rural areas.
Since 1974, Tulcea County Hospital has serves as the region’s main emergency facility, a vital lifeline for many in the region. The next nearest hospital is more than 90 minutes away.
Tulcea County is also seeing a sharp rise in tourism, growing faster than ever before and adding even more pressure to the healthcare system.
The challenge
Tulcea County hospital has operated continuously since its opening in 1974. Over the years, it has struggled with ageing buildings and outdated equipment.
Earlier EU support helped modernise parts of the hospital, but much more is needed. Regional authorities are working on a big project to modernise, expand and renovate the hospital to meet health and safety standards and ensure better care for its patients.
The action
The project will upgrade Tulcea Hospital in Romania, improving its infrastructure and services:
· A new seven-storey building will replace two smaller ones, offering six operating rooms, anaesthesia and intensive care units, maternity and newborn wards and a day hospital.
- The existing sections will be modernised with energy-efficient upgrades and new evacuation stairways.
- The project also includes the purchase of around 650 pieces of advanced medical equipment and 1 100 items of hospital furniture.
The renovated hospital will help improve the quality of care by attracting qualified staff, expanding day hospital services, reducing unnecessary hospital stays and strengthening cooperation with other healthcare providers.
Our JASPERS experts, part of the EIB Advisory services, provided technical and advisory support.
They helped assess the project's feasibility and its climate and environmental impact, estimating CO₂ savings from improved insulation, energy efficiency and renewable energy. The team also advised on climate adaptation planning and supported the preparation of project documentation, ensuring the investment met all funding requirements.
The results
The hospital rehabilitation will bring essential healthcare services closer to home. The Tulcea County Hospital is expected to treat about 75% of patients who previously had to travel outside the county for care.
With its updated facilities, the hospital will offer safer and better treatments.
Energy-efficient upgrades will cut costs, reduce environmental impact, and support sustainable practices, ensuring the project is climate-proof for the future.