The Olomouc Region as a Region of Healthy Living: CATRIN is also part of the OLIVIE Strategy

The OLIVIE strategy aims to leverage the top-tier facilities of companies and institutions in the Olomouc Region working in modern medicine, research, and development, while also fostering innovations that promote health, a healthy lifestyle, and life balance—not only for regional residents but for society as a whole. The strategy was officially presented at the Olomouc Regional Office, with CATRIN actively contributing to its development. Radek Zbořil is among the authors of the concept.

“OLIVIE brings together politicians, doctors, scientists, entrepreneurs, and citizens to collaboratively transform their region, making the concept unique on a pan-European scale. The shared commitment to investing time, energy, and resources into projects that support a healthy society makes perfect sense to me,” said Zbořil. According to him, OLIVIE is an open platform where not only companies, public institutions, and associations can take part—but also the people of the Olomouc Region.

The platform’s goal is to ensure a high quality of life for the region’s population. It is built on four pillars: preventive care with an emphasis on healthy lifestyles and screening programmes; the creation of a healthy environment including sustainable agriculture, local food production, spa and rehabilitation services; the development of a healthy society based on education, mental well-being, support for people with disabilities, and opportunities for active living for seniors and families with children. A key component of the comprehensive strategy is the advancement and application of cutting-edge technologies in medical diagnostics and treatment.

“Despite rapid progress in all fields of medicine, our society is growing increasingly unwell. Life expectancy is rising, but the years lived in good health are declining. OLIVIE is designed to help us find a path toward a sustainable, healthy, and fulfilling life. It promotes a local and holistic approach to health,” added Roman Havlík, director of the Olomouc University Hospital and co-author of the strategy.

According to the strategy’s creators, the Olomouc Region has excellent conditions and infrastructure to bring this vision to life. The region is home to several healthcare facilities, including the Olomouc University Hospital, which has long been implementing the latest medical advancements. Palacký University is a leader in cutting-edge research and technology transfer in smart diagnostics and modern therapy. The region also offers unique resources for sustainable agriculture, organic food production, sports, spa services, and relaxation.

“The Regional Office is already taking concrete steps to support a healthy lifestyle, and with the cooperation of our new partners, we will be doing even more within the OLIVIE programme. I’m truly looking forward to what lies ahead,” said Ladislav Okleštěk, Governor of the Olomouc Region.

The Olomouc Region will provide long-term support to all OLIVIE projects—not only through direct investments but also by coordinating activities and initiatives. More information is available at https://strategieolivie.cz.

Author
Martina Šaradínová
Translation:
Monika Klimparová
April 9, 2025