Knowledge and Experience Exchange as Karolinska University Hospital Hosts Estonian Delegation
During their stay, the Estonian colleagues had the opportunity to learn about Karolinska's methods in advanced breast cancer care. Through a tailored program, the delegation—comprising surgeons, oncologists, and nurses—gained insights into the latest research, innovative surgical techniques, and strategies for optimizing care. The exchange provided both parties with valuable perspectives and strengthened the foundation for continued collaboration.
Gabor Szirko, Head of the Breast Center at East Tallinn Central Hospital, praised the open and inclusive atmosphere at Karolinska University Hospital. He noted that Karolinska's success is not only based on medical advancements and research but also on strong interdisciplinary collaboration—a realization he views as critical for advancing breast cancer care in Estonia.
“Karolinska University Hospital and Karolinska Institutet are globally renowned for their role in pushing the boundaries of research and patient care, which in itself is very impressive, but this was topped by the very warm welcome we received from our colleagues,“ said Gabor.
He continued: “We felt welcomed from the moment we arrived and were astonished by the attention and the comprehensive introduction we received to the breast team’s work. We noticed the respect and attention that all team members share for each other, for their patients and for diagnosing and treating breast cancer. I also enjoyed the lessons in management, friendly relations and that cooperation are key to achieveng success in this field,“ said Gabor.
New Insights Benefiting Breast Cancer Patients in Estonia
“We had the opportunity to take part in multidisciplinary case meetings where we could learn about management of complex breast cancer cases. In the operating room, we observed different oncoplastic surgeries and discussed best practices in patient selection for reconstruction. Our nursing team also learned about supporting and guiding breast cancer patients through the entire treatment process. These experiences will have immediate effects for our breast cancer patients in Estonia,“ said Gabor.
During the visit, the Estonian healthcare team reflected on the challenges they face in breast cancer care in Estonia.
“There are many challenges in breast cancer care in Estonia that can be addressed by learning from the Karolinska experience, starting with surgical techniques in oncoplastic surgery and making the best use of technological advances in our field, despite limited economic resources,” said Gabor.
Another key takeaway, according to him, was how Karolinska conducts high-level research.
"The amount of high-quality research conducted at Karolinska is also a valuable source of knowledge that can be used to improve the quality of care and encourage us to do the same," Gabor added.
According to the Estonian team, they now look forward to putting these lessons into practice and, ultimately, strengthening and developing breast cancer care in their home country.
"From an organizational perspective, we learned that we should not compete with our colleagues, but with ourselves—and do everything we can to improve patient care year after year," Gabor concluded.
Nordic and Baltic Collaboration Strengthens Cancer Care
The Karolinska Cancer Comprehensive Center (Karolinska CCC) is part of a Nordic-Baltic network of so-called comprehensive cancer centers. The network, established in 2019, aims to improve cancer care, research, and education through cross-border collaboration. In addition to Sweden and Estonia, the network includes Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Latvia, and Lithuania.
The visit from Estonia highlights the importance of international cooperation to share knowledge and improve care for cancer patients. Karolinska University Hospital's role as a leading player in both clinical care and research strengthens the network and contributes to shared development throughout the entire region.
"It was a very rewarding visit, and we look forward to more exchanges like this. By collaborating and learning from each other, we can continue to develop cancer care and provide patients with the best possible treatment," says Hanna Fredholm, Head of Section for Breast Surgery, Breast Center, Karolinska University Hospital.