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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How can the Ministry of Health improve communication and engagement with stakeholders during the reform process?
**Interview with Aurelijs Veryga, Former Minister of Health**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Veryga. There has been significant discussion around the recent appeals from the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party regarding the healthcare reform. Can you explain why you believe the ongoing changes in the healthcare network are causing such unrest?
**Aurelijs Veryga:** Thank you for having me. The healthcare reform, as it stands, is a major systemic overhaul that has understandably generated resistance. Many healthcare professionals, including managers and doctors, are feeling uncertain and frustrated, leading some to resign. This could very well reflect a broader issue of confidence in how these changes are being handled.
**Editor:** The Speaker of the Seimas has suggested that the Ministry of Health needs to improve its communication regarding the reform. Do you agree with this assessment?
**Aurelijs Veryga:** Absolutely. Effective communication is crucial in any reform process, especially one that affects so many stakeholders. There seems to be a disconnect between what is being implemented and the information provided to those impacted, which can create a sense of confusion and anxiety.
**Editor:** You previously linked some resignations in healthcare institutions to the reform. What evidence do you have to support this connection?
**Aurelijs Veryga:** My assertion is based on patterns we’ve observed – those resignations tend to peak around significant announcements or shifts in policy. When staff members feel that their roles or responsibilities may change dramatically, it’s natural for some to reconsider their positions. It’s a signal that the reform process may not be as smooth as intended.
**Editor:** The ruling conservatives have denied the criticism, suggesting that resistance to reform is expected. What do you think about their response?
**Aurelijs Veryga:** While it’s true that resistance is common in any significant reform, dismissing the concerns of healthcare workers and the public as merely reactionary isn’t constructive. It’s vital for the ruling party to engage in dialogue, address the concerns raised, and make sure that changes are made with transparency and input from those affected.
**Editor:** Given the current situation, what do you think should be the immediate next steps for the Ministry of Health?
**Aurelijs Veryga:** The ministry should undertake a detailed review of the proposed reforms, as the opposition has suggested. They need to gather evidence, take feedback, and clearly communicate how these changes will benefit both healthcare professionals and the public. Engaging in comprehensive consultations will help build trust and make the transition smoother.
**Editor:** Thank you, Mr. Veryga, for your insights on this critical issue facing Lithuania’s healthcare system.
**Aurelijs Veryga:** Thank you for having me. It’s important we continue this dialogue for the benefit of our healthcare system and those who rely on it.