The medical community of Bosnia and Herzegovina mourns the death of Professor Šekib Sokolović, a distinguished cardiologist, rheumatologist, and academic who passed away on November 7, 2026, at the age of 69. The Medical Association BIMA, which he helped found, confirmed his death and described it as a profound loss for both the association and the nation’s health sector.

Born and raised in Sarajevo, Professor Sokolović completed his primary, secondary and higher education at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Sarajevo. He earned his specialty in internal medicine and subsequently pursued subspecialist training in two demanding fields: cardiology and rheumatology. Throughout his career, he combined clinical practice, research, and teaching, becoming a pillar of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s healthcare system.

For many years he served at the Clinical Center University of Sarajevo (KCUS), primarily on the Clinic for Heart Diseases and Rheumatism. In addition to his clinical duties, he held several leadership positions within the hospital and treated thousands of patients from across the country. After his tenure in the public sector, he continued his work through a private medical practice, maintaining his reputation as a compassionate and highly skilled physician.

Professor Sokolović was also a full‑time professor at the Faculty of Medicine in Sarajevo. Over decades, he educated multiple generations of medical students, interns and specialist trainees. Colleagues highlighted his pedagogical approach, which emphasized up‑to‑date medical practices and mentorship of young doctors. His influence extended beyond the classroom; he authored and co‑authored numerous scientific articles published in respected international and domestic medical journals, as well as university textbooks and manuals covering cardiology, hypertension and systemic rheumatic diseases.

His professional affiliations included membership in the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and various rheumatology societies, reflecting his active participation in both national and international medical circles. Beyond academic and clinical work, Professor Sokolović made a lasting humanitarian impact through the Medical Association BIMA. He regularly took part in volunteer medical missions, delivering health care to remote and socially vulnerable areas of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and providing assistance to returning refugees.

In a statement released by BIMA, the association praised his “unmatched contribution” to medicine, academia and society, calling him a “person whose knowledge, experience, reputation and dedication left an indelible mark.” The organization expressed condolences to his family, friends and colleagues, and emphasized that his legacy will continue to inspire future healthcare professionals.

The death of Professor Šekib Sokolović underscores the loss of one of the country’s most respected medical experts. His combined expertise in internal medicine, cardiology and rheumatology, coupled with a lifelong commitment to teaching and humanitarian service, positioned him as a leading figure in Bosnian healthcare. Tributes are expected from academic institutions, professional societies and patients whose lives he touched throughout his extensive career.

Sources (learn more):

klix.ba — https://klix.ba/vijesti/bih/preminuo-sekib-sokolovic-ugledni-kardiolog-reumatolog-i-jedan-od-osnivaca-asocijacije-bima/261107051