The opposition Lithuanian Social Democratic Party appealed to the country’s officials last week, urging them to stop the reform of the healthcare network and to start a detailed and public review of it, to carry out an evidence-based assessment. The ruling conservatives rejected the criticism.
“Not a single reform passes without resistance, this is a major systemic change and apparently the ministry must prepare for such a change, first of all, by its arguments, by providing information, above all to those who will be affected by that reform,” the Speaker of the Seimas told LRT on Wednesday. “It gives the impression that it was not fully done and it is being explained when it has already been started, maybe a little late.”
“I can’t answer why this happened, the ministry should be asked here, but obviously answers are needed, information is needed,” she added.
Recently, there have been reports of resignations of managers and doctors in different health care institutions. Former Minister of Health Aurelijs Veryga linked some of these cases to the ongoing reform.
V. Čmilytė-Nielsen, for her part, urged not to confuse these situations.
“The fact that there are questions, there is dissatisfaction with the changes, this is apparently natural. It really shouldn’t be confused with those individual cases, sometimes dictated by the political conjuncture, when, say, the management leaves or a group of doctors leave one or another hospital. Those things are not necessarily related and usually they are not,” she said.
The health care reform was approved by the Seimas last year, after its implementation it is promised to provide more outpatient services at the place of residence of patients and to reduce hospitalization.
New entities will be created in municipalities – health centers that would take care of public health, provide ambulatory health care services, emergency medical assistance, day services, inpatient services for internal diseases, and engage in long-term care.
However, part of the municipalities and the medical institutions themselves claim that the restructuring does not take into account the development of the network of medical institutions carried out so far, and as a result services will decrease in some regions.
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What are the main concerns of healthcare professionals regarding the ongoing healthcare reforms in Lithuania?
**Interview with Aurelijs Veryga, Former Minister of Health of Lithuania**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Aurelijs. Last week, the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party issued a call to pause the ongoing healthcare reform. What’s your take on their appeal?
**Veryga:** Thank you for having me. The opposition’s call is certainly reflective of the growing concerns within the community, especially among healthcare professionals who feel uneasy about the pace and scope of these reforms. It’s crucial that we allow for a thorough and public assessment of any changes to a system as vital as healthcare.
**Editor:** There have been reports of resignations among managers and doctors during this reform process. Do you believe that these changes are directly linked to the reform efforts?
**Veryga:** I do believe there is a connection. When systemic changes are implemented without sufficient communication and support, it can lead to resistance among those in the field. Professionals may feel overwhelmed or unsupported, and some may choose to leave as a result. It’s indeed a concerning trend that we should address.
**Editor:** The Speaker of the Seimas noted that reforms usually meet resistance and emphasized the need for better communication from the Ministry. Do you think the ministry has been transparent enough about these reforms?
**Veryga:** From what I’ve observed, there certainly appears to be a communication gap. Open dialogue is essential not only to clarify the goals of the reform but also to ensure that those affected have a platform to voice their concerns. Without that, we risk eroding trust and morale within the healthcare system.
**Editor:** The ruling conservatives have rejected criticism of the healthcare reform. What do you think this means for the future of the reform process?
**Veryga:** Dismissal of criticism without constructive engagement can be dangerous. It risks alienating stakeholders and undermining the legitimacy of the reform efforts. For any systemic change to succeed, it’s vital to have all voices at the table. This reform needs to be inclusive and evidence-based, as the Social Democrats mentioned.
**Editor:** what would you recommend to ensure that this reform is successful and beneficial for the healthcare system in Lithuania?
**Veryga:** I would recommend initiating an independent review process that involves healthcare professionals, patients, and policymakers. This should be evidence-based and transparent, with clear communication throughout. Ensuring that all stakeholders feel heard and considered will create a more sustainable and successful reform outcome in the long run.
**Editor:** Thank you, Aurelijs. Your insights are invaluable, and we hope to see a resolution that benefits all involved.
**Veryga:** Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a constructive path forward.
