Serbia, a country at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe, beckons with its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and a dynamic urban life, particularly in its capital, Belgrade. From the ancient walls of Belgrade Fortress to the lively streets of Skadarlija and the breathtaking landscapes of its national parks, Serbia offers a diverse and captivating experience. As more individuals choose to explore, reside in, or conduct business within this fascinating nation, a fundamental question often arises: what about healthcare? How do you ensure your health and safety in a country where understanding its evolving public health infrastructure and knowing how to access quality care, particularly for specialized needs or emergencies, is paramount for a worry-free stay?
What if an unexpected medical need arises during your exploration of Belgrade’s vibrant nightlife, while on a business trip in Novi Sad, enjoying a peaceful moment in a rural retreat, or even during a quiet moment in your community? How do you identify the best hospitals in Serbia, especially those that provide reliable care, cater to international visitors, and offer essential medical services? What vital preparations should you make to ensure seamless access to healthcare services, from understanding robust insurance requirements and navigating specialized medical centers to knowing the crucial importance of an efficient and patient-centric platform? And how can you find a reliable partner that truly guides you through the practicalities of healthcare in this engaging Balkan nation?
This is precisely where MyHospitalNow becomes your indispensable partner. We understand that finding reliable medical care in Serbia, whether for routine health needs, an unexpected illness, or an emergency situation, requires more than just a list; it demands comprehensive insights, transparent information, and a user-friendly platform that illuminates every facet of its sophisticated healthcare network. We are dedicated to being your ultimate global health compass, connecting you directly with the key medical facilities across Serbia and providing the essential context you need for a truly secure and informed healthcare journey.
In this extensive guide, we will delve deep into the healthcare landscape of Serbia, exploring its prominent medical facilities, highlighting available medical services and specialized treatments, detailing crucial access pathways for international residents and visitors, and providing practical advice for navigating this system. Most importantly, we’ll showcase how MyHospitalNow serves as your definitive hospitals in Serbia platform, offering unparalleled assistance to help you achieve your health goals with confidence and peace of mind.
Serbia’s Healthcare System: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Serbia’s healthcare system has undergone significant transformations since the 1990s, evolving into a hybrid model that combines a publicly funded universal healthcare system with a rapidly expanding private sector. While the public system aims to provide accessible care for all citizens, the private sector caters to those seeking faster access, enhanced comfort, and specialized services.
- The Public Healthcare Sector:
- Funding and Access: The public healthcare system is largely financed by mandatory health insurance contributions paid to the Republic Health Insurance Fund (RFZO/RHIF – Republički fond za zdravstveno osiguranje). All citizens and legally employed individuals are covered. This system provides access to a network of public health centers (domovi zdravlja), general hospitals, and specialized clinical centers.
- Services: Covers a wide range of services, including primary care, specialist consultations, hospital treatments, emergency services, and prescription medications (with co-payments).
- Challenges: Despite its universal coverage, the public sector faces several challenges:
- Underfunding and Resource Constraints: Leading to long waiting lists for certain elective procedures, diagnostic tests, and specialist appointments.
- Outdated Equipment: While modernization is ongoing, some public facilities may still have older equipment compared to Western European standards or modern private clinics.
- “Brain Drain”: The emigration of medical professionals to Western countries poses a significant challenge to staffing.
- Informal Payments: While illegal, informal payments for faster access or better treatment can sometimes be an issue, though efforts are being made to combat this.
- Strengths: Provides essential and emergency care, capable of handling complex medical cases, particularly in major clinical centers.
- The Private Healthcare Sector:
- Growth and Demand: The private healthcare sector has experienced substantial growth in recent years, particularly in major cities like Belgrade. This growth is driven by demand for quicker access, modern facilities, and a more personalized patient experience.
- Services: Private clinics and hospitals offer a wide array of services, including general practice, specialist consultations, advanced diagnostics (MRI, CT, ultrasound), minor and major surgeries, dental care, cosmetic procedures, and rehabilitation.
- Advantages:
- Faster Appointments: Significantly shorter waiting times compared to the public system.
- Modern Facilities: Often equipped with state-of-the-art technology and comfortable environments.
- Patient Comfort: Emphasis on a more convenient and pleasant patient experience.
- Multilingual Staff: More likely to have English-speaking medical professionals.
- Cost: Access to private healthcare requires direct payment or coverage through private health insurance. Costs are generally lower than in Western Europe but significantly higher than public sector co-payments.
- Ongoing Reforms and Vision:
- Serbia is actively engaged in healthcare reforms aimed at aligning its system with European Union standards. These reforms focus on improving quality, efficiency, patient satisfaction, and integrating digital health solutions.
- The goal is to create a more resilient, accessible, and high-quality healthcare system that serves both its citizens and a growing international population.
This evolving landscape means that while the public system provides a safety net, the private sector offers a compelling alternative for those seeking enhanced services and convenience, making careful consideration of insurance options crucial for expatriates and visitors.
Centers of Excellence: Leading Hospitals in Belgrade and Beyond
Serbia’s healthcare prowess is anchored by several prominent hospitals and medical centers, primarily concentrated in its capital, Belgrade. These institutions, ranging from vast public clinical centers to modern private hospitals, collectively offer a wide spectrum of medical services. MyHospitalNow highlights the key players in Serbia’s hospital landscape.
Leading Public Hospitals and Clinical Centers (Belgrade – Major Referral Hubs):
These large public institutions serve as the backbone of the national healthcare system, providing comprehensive and often highly specialized care, acting as referral centers for the entire country.
- Clinical Centre of Serbia (KCS) / Клинички центар Србије:
- Location: Belgrade (multiple addresses, major campus at Pasterova 2).
- Status: This is the largest hospital complex in Serbia and one of the largest in Europe, often considered the central pillar of Serbian healthcare. It comprises over 40 clinics and institutes, functioning as a “city within a city” dedicated to medicine.
- Services & Specialties: Provides comprehensive tertiary (highly specialized) care across virtually all medical and surgical specialties. This includes advanced cardiology, oncology, neurosurgery, organ transplantation, internal medicine, pediatrics, gynecology, and emergency care. It is the primary referral center for the most complex cases.
- Modernization: KCS is currently undergoing a significant modernization project, with new buildings, upgraded equipment, and improved infrastructure aimed at enhancing patient care.
- Military Medical Academy (MMA) / Vojnomedicinska akademija (VMA):
- Location: Crnotravska 17, Belgrade.
- Status: A renowned military medical institution that is also open to civilians. It has a strong reputation for high standards, strict discipline, and quality care.
- Services & Specialties: Offers a wide array of medical, surgical, and diagnostic services across numerous specialties, including internal medicine, surgery, neurology, orthopedics, and emergency medicine. It’s a significant teaching and research institution.
- Key Feature: Often considered one of the best-equipped public hospitals in Serbia and a preferred choice for many due to its perceived efficiency and quality.
- Clinical Hospital Center Bežanijska Kosa / KBC Bežanijska Kosa:
- Location: Bežanijska Kosa bb, Belgrade.
- Status: A large and well-regarded public general hospital in Belgrade.
- Services: Provides a broad range of medical and surgical services, including strong departments in internal medicine, general surgery, and oncology.
- Clinical Hospital Center Zvezdara / KBC Zvezdara (KBC Zvezdara “Dr. Dragisa Misovic”):
- Location: Dimitrija Tucovića 161, Belgrade.
- Status: Another major public general hospital in Belgrade, offering diverse medical care.
- University Children’s Hospital in Tiršova / Univerzitetska dečja klinika u Tiršovoj:
- Location: Tiršova 10, Belgrade.
- Status: The leading and most comprehensive specialized pediatric hospital in Serbia, providing advanced care for children.
Leading Private Hospitals and Medical Groups (Predominantly in Belgrade – Preferred by Expats):
The private sector in Serbia offers modern facilities, quicker access, and enhanced patient comfort, making them popular choices for expatriates, those with private insurance, and medical tourists.
- Bel Medic General Hospital / Opšta bolnica Bel Medic:
- Location: Koste Jovanovića 87, Belgrade (and other polyclinics).
- Status: Widely recognized as one of the leading and most comprehensive private hospitals in Serbia. It has a strong reputation for modern facilities, advanced equipment, and highly skilled medical staff.
- Services & Specialties: Offers a vast range of specialties, including general surgery, internal medicine, orthopedics, gynecology, pediatrics, advanced diagnostics (MRI, CT), and a well-regarded emergency unit. It’s often the top choice for expats.
- Partnership: Notably, Bel Medic is now partnered with Acibadem Healthcare Group (a prominent Turkish private healthcare provider), further enhancing its international standards and capabilities.
- Euromedik:
- Locations: A large chain of private polyclinics and diagnostic centers across multiple locations in Belgrade.
- Status: Known for its accessibility, extensive network, and modern diagnostic capabilities.
- Services: Primarily focuses on outpatient consultations across a wide range of specialties, advanced laboratory services, and comprehensive imaging (MRI, CT, ultrasound). It’s a popular choice for quick diagnostics and specialist visits.
- MediGroup:
- Locations: Operates a network of hospitals and polyclinics in Belgrade and other cities.
- Status: A significant private healthcare system in Serbia, offering a broad range of services.
- Services: Provides inpatient and outpatient care across various medical and surgical disciplines.
- Atlas General Hospital / Opšta bolnica Atlas:
- Location: Kolo srpskih sestara 9, Belgrade.
- Status: A modern private hospital, particularly recognized for its surgical expertise.
- Specialties: Popular for various surgical procedures including orthopedics, plastic and reconstructive surgery, general surgery, and bariatric surgery. It attracts medical tourists for these specialized interventions.
While Belgrade is undoubtedly the hub for advanced medical care in Serbia, regional centers also exist, with public hospitals in cities like Novi Sad, Niš, and Kragujevac providing general and some specialized care to their respective regions. For complex conditions, however, referral to Belgrade is common.
Comprehensive Medical Services and Specialties: The Breadth of Serbian Healthcare
Serbia’s healthcare system, particularly in its major urban centers, offers a wide and comprehensive range of medical services, spanning from routine primary care to highly specialized diagnostic and surgical interventions. While the public sector provides essential universal access, the growing private sector is distinguishing itself with advanced equipment, faster services, and specialized offerings, making Serbia an emerging destination for certain medical tourism procedures.
A Full Continuum of Care:
- Primary Healthcare:
- Description: The foundational level of care, delivered through local health centers (domovi zdravlja) and private general practitioner clinics. This covers routine check-ups, basic diagnostics, vaccinations, management of common illnesses, and referrals to specialists.
- Availability: Widely accessible across the country.
- Secondary Healthcare:
- Description: Provided by general hospitals and polyclinics, offering specialist consultations, basic surgical procedures, and inpatient care for more common conditions.
- Availability: Available in most towns and cities across Serbia.
- Tertiary Healthcare:
- Description: Highly specialized and complex medical care delivered by clinical centers and specialized hospitals for severe, rare, or complex diseases. This includes advanced diagnostics, complex surgeries, and intensive care.
- Availability: Primarily concentrated in major clinical centers in Belgrade (e.g., Clinical Centre of Serbia, Military Medical Academy) and other large cities.
Key Medical Services and Specialized Fields:
Serbian hospitals and clinics excel in various medical disciplines, with continuous investment in technology and expertise:
- Emergency Medicine: All major public hospitals have emergency departments (hitna pomoć) equipped to handle critical cases and trauma 24/7. Private clinics may offer urgent care but direct severe emergencies to hospitals.
- General Surgery & Internal Medicine: Core services widely available in both public and private hospitals, covering a broad spectrum of conditions.
- Diagnostics: Modern diagnostic capabilities are increasingly common, particularly in private clinics and major public hospitals. This includes:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scans
- Ultrasound and X-rays
- Endoscopy and Colonoscopy
- Comprehensive Laboratory Services: For blood, urine, and other biological sample analyses.
- Cardiology: Advanced cardiac diagnostics, interventional cardiology (e.g., angiography, angioplasty, stenting), and cardiac surgery are performed at specialized centers within the Clinical Centre of Serbia and other major hospitals.
- Oncology (Cancer Treatment): Comprehensive cancer care, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology, is available. However, access to the latest generation of specific targeted therapies or experimental treatments might still be more limited than in highly developed Western countries.
- Neurology & Neurosurgery: Treatment for neurological disorders, complex brain and spine surgeries are performed by specialist teams.
- Orthopedics & Traumatology: Management of bone and joint conditions, sports injuries, and complex fracture repair, including joint replacement surgeries.
- Gynecology & Obstetrics: Comprehensive women’s health services, including prenatal care, delivery, and gynecological surgeries.
- Ophthalmology & ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat): Specialized care for eye and ENT conditions, including various surgical procedures.
- Urology & Nephrology: Treatment for kidney and urinary tract diseases, including dialysis services.
- Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation: Well-developed services for post-operative recovery, injury rehabilitation, and chronic pain management.
Emerging Areas & Medical Tourism:
Serbia is increasingly recognized for its competitive pricing and quality in specific medical tourism sectors:
- Dental Tourism: Serbian dentists are highly skilled, and dental procedures (from routine check-ups to complex implants and cosmetic dentistry) are significantly more affordable than in Western Europe or North America, attracting a growing number of international patients.
- Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery: Similarly, cosmetic procedures (e.g., facelifts, liposuction, breast augmentation) are offered at lower costs by experienced surgeons in modern private clinics, making Serbia a popular choice for medical tourists seeking these services.
- Elective Surgeries: For certain elective surgeries that might have long waiting lists or higher costs elsewhere, Serbia offers a compelling alternative.
While Serbia’s healthcare system continues to evolve and modernize, providing robust care for many conditions, it is always advisable for international patients to verify the availability of specific highly specialized treatments or unique medications. MyHospitalNow helps bridge this information gap, connecting you with reliable facilities.
Navigating Healthcare as an International Patient/Expat in Serbia
For expatriates, digital nomads, and international visitors, understanding how to access medical care in Serbia is essential. The system offers a mix of public and private options, with specific requirements regarding health insurance. MyHospitalNow provides critical guidance for navigating healthcare as an international resident or patient in Serbia.
1. Health Insurance Requirements for Foreigners:
- Mandatory Requirement: Foreigners residing in Serbia, whether for work, study, or other long-term purposes, are generally required to have health insurance.
- Options for Coverage:
- Travel Insurance (Short-Term Visitors): For tourists or short-term visitors, comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical emergencies, hospitalization, and crucially, medical evacuation and repatriation, is highly recommended. This is vital as it covers unexpected serious health issues that might necessitate transport to your home country or a more advanced medical center in Europe.
- Private Health Insurance (Long-Term Residents/Expats): For expatriates and long-term residents, securing a robust private health insurance policy is strongly advisable, and often a prerequisite for visa/residency. These policies typically provide access to the better-equipped private clinics and hospitals, offering shorter waiting times and more personalized care. Many international health insurance providers offer plans that cover Serbia.
- Voluntary Inclusion in RFZO (Public System): In some cases, and for certain categories of foreigners (e.g., self-employed, dependents of covered individuals), it may be possible to voluntarily enroll in the Republic Health Insurance Fund (RFZO) by paying monthly contributions. This would grant access to the public healthcare system on par with Serbian citizens. It’s best to consult with the RFZO directly or a local legal advisor for eligibility.
- Proof of Insurance: Be prepared to show proof of your health insurance coverage (policy details, insurance card) when seeking medical care.
2. Accessing Medical Care:
- Public vs. Private System Access:
- Public System: If you are covered by the RFZO (either mandatory as an employee or voluntarily), you can access public health centers and hospitals. For primary care, you would typically register with a dom zdravlja (health center). For specialists, a referral from a general practitioner is usually needed.
- Private System: Private clinics and hospitals can be accessed directly without referral. This is often the preferred choice for foreigners due to faster appointments, modern facilities, and English-speaking staff. You will either pay directly or rely on your private insurance for direct billing or reimbursement.
- Payment Procedures:
- Private Facilities: In private clinics, you will typically be required to pay for services upfront if your insurance does not have a direct billing agreement with the facility. Always get detailed receipts and medical reports for reimbursement claims.
- Public Facilities (for non-RFZO covered foreigners): While public hospitals will treat emergency conditions regardless of insurance status, non-emergency treatments or specific procedures for foreigners without RFZO coverage will likely require upfront payment at the hospital’s rates for foreign nationals.
- Appointments: It is advisable to book appointments in advance for non-emergency consultations, especially with specialists in both public and private sectors.
3. Language in Healthcare Settings:
- Official Language: Serbian is the official language.
- English Proficiency: In major private hospitals and clinics in Belgrade, English is widely spoken by doctors, nurses, and administrative staff, making communication straightforward for international patients. In public hospitals, while some staff may speak English, it is not guaranteed, and you may encounter language barriers. Having a translation app or a local contact who can interpret can be helpful.
4. Medical Tourism in Serbia:
- Growing Trend: Serbia is gaining recognition as a medical tourism destination, largely due to the high quality of certain procedures coupled with significantly lower costs compared to Western Europe or North America.
- Popular Specialties: The most popular areas for medical tourism include:
- Dental Care: High-quality dental work (implants, veneers, crowns) at very competitive prices.
- Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery: Experienced surgeons offering a full range of aesthetic procedures.
- Elective Surgeries: Certain general and orthopedic surgeries with shorter waiting times.
- Facilitation: Many private hospitals and clinics that cater to medical tourists offer services like airport transfers, accommodation assistance, and dedicated international patient coordinators to ease the process.
MyHospitalNow emphasizes that while Serbia offers excellent medical care, particularly in its private sector, securing appropriate health insurance is the most critical step for any international patient or resident to ensure seamless access and financial protection.
Emergency Services and General Health Advice in Serbia
Understanding how to access emergency services and adhering to general health and safety guidelines are vital for a secure and comfortable experience in Serbia. The country maintains a well-structured emergency response system, and awareness of local conditions is key to well-being. MyHospitalNow provides essential contacts and advice for your stay.
Accessing Emergency Services:
Serbia operates various emergency numbers. While the European standard 112 is being promoted, specific numbers for different services are still widely used and effective:
- Unified Emergency Number: 112 (Increasingly recognized and encouraged for all emergencies. It will connect you to an operator who can dispatch the appropriate service.)
- Police: Dial 192
- Fire: Dial 193
- Ambulance / Emergency Medical Service (Hitna Pomoć): Dial 194
- Calling for Help: When contacting any emergency service, be prepared to:
- State the nature of the emergency clearly and concisely.
- Provide the exact location (address, nearby landmarks).
- Give your phone number.
- Stay calm and follow the operator’s instructions.
- Language: While the primary language is Serbian, especially when calling 192, 193, or 194, operators on the 112 line are more likely to have English speakers available. In major cities, some emergency responders may also have basic English proficiency.
Emergency Medical Facilities:
- Public Hospitals: All major public hospitals (e.g., Clinical Centre of Serbia, Military Medical Academy, KBC Bežanijska Kosa in Belgrade) have 24/7 emergency departments (Urgentni Centar) equipped to handle critical cases, trauma, and medical emergencies. These can be very busy, especially during peak hours, leading to long waiting times for non-life-threatening conditions.
- Private Clinics: While private clinics typically do not have full emergency departments for critical cases, many offer urgent care services for less severe conditions (e.g., sudden illness, minor injuries) during their operating hours. For serious emergencies, they will usually stabilize the patient and then transfer them to a public hospital’s emergency department.
General Health and Safety Advice:
- Food and Water Safety:
- Tap Water: Tap water in major cities like Belgrade is generally considered safe to drink. However, if you have a sensitive stomach or are unsure, bottled water is widely available and a safe alternative.
- Food Hygiene: Food safety standards are generally good in established restaurants and hotels. Practice basic food hygiene: wash hands frequently, especially before eating; avoid uncooked or undercooked meat; and be cautious with street food from vendors whose hygiene practices are unclear.
- Vaccinations:
- Routine Vaccinations: Ensure all your routine immunizations are up-to-date according to your national schedule (e.g., Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR); Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio (DTP)).
- Travel-Specific Vaccinations: Consult your doctor about recommended travel-specific vaccinations for Serbia (e.g., Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Rabies, or Tick-borne Encephalitis if visiting forested areas).
- Traffic and Road Safety:
- Driving Conditions: Roads are generally in good condition, especially major highways. However, traffic in Belgrade can be dense, and driving habits may be more aggressive than in some Western countries.
- Pedestrians: Be vigilant as a pedestrian, especially when crossing streets. Always use designated crossings.
- Public Transport: Public transport in major cities is extensive and generally reliable.
- Seatbelts/Helmets: It is mandatory to wear seatbelts in cars and helmets on motorcycles.
- Personal Safety:
- Crime Rate: Serbia generally has a low crime rate, but petty crime (e.g., pickpocketing) can occur in crowded tourist areas, especially in Belgrade.
- Precautions: Be aware of your surroundings, secure your belongings, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas at night.
- Language and Communication:
- Serbian: Learning a few basic phrases in Serbian can greatly enhance your experience and facilitate communication, especially outside of major tourist hubs.
- English: English is increasingly spoken by younger generations and in tourist-oriented businesses, but proficiency can vary.
- Medication Awareness:
- Availability: Pharmacies (apoteka) are widely available. Basic medications are usually in stock, but specialized drugs might be limited.
- Documentation: Always carry a copy of your prescription and a doctor’s letter (preferably in English) for any prescription medications you bring into the country. Check if any of your medications are restricted in Serbia.
- Respect Local Customs:
- Serbia is a secular country, but respecting local traditions and customs, particularly in religious sites, is appreciated.
By being informed about these aspects, you can ensure a safer, healthier, and more enjoyable experience during your time in Serbia. MyHospitalNow supports your seamless integration and well-being.
Conclusion: Serbia’s Healthcare – Your Gateway to Wellness, Guided by MyHospitalNow
Serbia, a country of captivating history, vibrant urban landscapes, and warm hospitality, offers an increasingly modern and accessible healthcare system. Our comprehensive exploration has revealed a dynamic landscape, where the publicly funded system provides universal access, while a rapidly growing private sector, particularly in Belgrade, distinguishes itself with cutting-edge technology, enhanced comfort, and expedited services. Institutions like the vast Clinical Centre of Serbia (KCS) and the esteemed Military Medical Academy (MMA) form the pillars of public care, complemented by leading private facilities such as Bel Medic/Acibadem Bel Medic, Euromedik, and Atlas General Hospital, which are increasingly preferred by expatriates and medical tourists.
Serbia’s medical offerings span a wide spectrum, from routine primary care and advanced diagnostics to complex surgeries. The country has also emerged as a noteworthy destination for medical tourism, particularly for high-quality, cost-effective dental care and cosmetic surgery, attracting international patients seeking excellent value. For expatriates and long-term residents, securing appropriate health insurance—whether private or through voluntary inclusion in the public fund—is a crucial step to ensure seamless access to care and financial protection.
MyHospitalNow is dedicated to being your indispensable guide throughout your journey in Serbia. We provide:
- Detailed and transparent insights into Serbia’s dual healthcare system, highlighting its structure, ongoing reforms, and the distinct advantages of both public and private sectors.
- An authoritative overview of key hospitals and medical groups, providing specific details on their specialties, facilities, and the unique patient experience they offer.
- A clear understanding of the comprehensive range of medical services available, from general practice and emergency care to specialized treatments and advanced diagnostics, along with insights into popular medical tourism procedures.
- Essential guidance for international patients and expatriates, covering insurance requirements, payment procedures, language considerations, and how to effectively navigate the system.
- Critical information on emergency services (including the unified emergency number 112) and practical general health and safety advice tailored for life in Serbia.
We believe that your experience in Serbia should be rich with discovery and unburdened by health-related anxieties. MyHospitalNow is committed to equipping you with the vital information and support needed to make informed decisions about your medical care, allowing you to fully embrace this fascinating Balkan nation with confidence and peace of mind.
Ready to Experience Serbia’s Charm with Unwavering Medical Confidence?
Whether your journey takes you to the historic streets of Belgrade, the scenic landscapes of Vojvodina, or the bustling cities across the country, MyHospitalNow is your trusted medical compass. Your search for understanding the best hospitals in Serbia platform and for securing truly effective medical assistance begins and thrives here.
Visit MyHospitalnow.com/blog/category/hospitals-in-serbia/ today and empower yourself with the vital knowledge to navigate healthcare confidently, ensuring your well-being and a truly unforgettable experience. Let us assist you in preparing for a safe, healthy, and successful stay in this dynamic and welcoming nation.