The Balkan Society of Pediatric and Congenital Heart Diseases (BSPCHD) is dedicated to advancing the field of pediatric cardiology and cardiovascular surgery while fostering strong bonds among its members. Committed to promoting international knowledge exchange within the Balkan region, our non-profit, non-political organization stands to serve the public interest.

In 2025 BSPCHD already has 61 members from most Balkan countries. 

Aims and objectives

Our primary aim is to elevate pediatric and adult congenital cardiology and cardiovascular surgery within the Balkan countries. BSPCHD accomplishes this through various initiatives:

Scientific advancement: We organize scientific meetings, workshops, and symposium s, nurturing the expertise of our members.

The 1st BSPCHD Congress will be held 13-14 March 2026 in Athens, Greece and virtually. 

Research and publication: The publication of scientific articles in our official journal, the "Journal of Pediatric and Congenital Heart Diseases'  (JPCHD), serves as a platform for sharing cutting-edge research.

Problem solving and humanitarian efforts: By establishing working groups, we tackle ongoing challenges in pediatric and congenital cardiac care. Additionally, we engage in humanitarian endeavors to enhance cardiac healthcare in the Balkan area.

Membership and governance

Our society welcomes medical and paramedical healthcare professionals with a focus on acquired and congenital pediatric and adult cardiac pathologies. Active Members, residing and practicing within the Balkan countries and two associated nations, play a crucial role in decision-making, while Associate Members and Supporting Members contribute to our shared vision and goals.

Democratic decision-making

The General Assembly, comprising our esteemed members, holds the highest authority within BSPCHD. Through annual meetings and fair representation from each country, decisions are made democratically, ensuring inclusivity and representation.

Financial transparency and accountability

We operate transparently, utilizing membership fees, donations, grants, and subsidies to sustain our activities. An external Auditor, appointed yearly, guarantees financial accountability, reinforcing our commitment to responsible resource management.

Continual improvement and adaptation

Our statutes provide a robust framework guiding our operations. To maintain relevance and effectiveness, we have provisions for regular revision, ensuring that the society evolves in tandem with the changing landscape of pediatric cardiology and cardiovascular surgery.

The BSPCHD remains steadfast in its pursuit of excellence, collaboration, and progress, striving to enhance cardiac care and forge lasting connections among professionals in the Balkans and beyond.

To read the Statutes of the Society, please click here.

To register as a member, please fill in the attached form and send it to info@bspchd.com

Founding Members

Below are the founding members of the Balkan Society of Pediatric and Congenital Heart Diseases:

• Albania - Dr Kristo Papa
• Greece - Professor Afksendiyos Kalangos
• Greece - Dr Natalia Shatelen
• North Macedonia - Dr Vedran Stojanovic
• Serbia - Professor Ida Jovanovic
• Serbia - Dr Srdjan Vukasinovic
• Serbia - Professor Vojislav Parezanovic
• Serbia - Dr Nenad Barisic
• Serbia - Dr Sergej Prijic
• Serbia - Dr Igor Stefanovic
• Slovenia - Dr Miroslav Elek

Board of Society (2025-2026)

President: Professor Afksendiyos Kalangos

Vice President: Professor Vojislav Parezanovic

General Secretary: Dr Andreas Petropoulos

Treasurer: Dr Nataliya Shatelen

Members:  Dr Mirza Halimic, Dr Neven Cace, Dr Vesna Miranovic, Dr Kristo Papa, Dr Valentina Jovanovska, Dr Valentin Stroe, Dr Sasa Ilovar Strehar, Dr Andrian Rotaru

Country Representatives

Contact Details:  info@bspchd.com