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, perhaps 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 reduce hospitalization.
New formations 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 transformation 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 raised by the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party regarding the healthcare reform?
**Interview with Aurelijs Veryga, Former Minister of Health of Lithuania**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Veryga. The Lithuanian Social Democratic Party has recently called for a halt to the healthcare reform, citing a need for a more detailed public review. What are your thoughts on this appeal?
**Veryga:** Thank you for having me. I believe the appeal from the opposition highlights legitimate concerns. A reform of this magnitude should not only be transparent but should also seek input from those directly affected — patients and healthcare professionals. A detailed review can help ensure that all voices are heard before moving forward.
**Editor:** The ruling conservatives have dismissed this criticism, with Speaker V. Čmilytė-Nielsen stating that no reform is without resistance. Do you think the government has adequately prepared for the backlash?
**Veryga:** It appears that the communication strategies could have been much stronger. Any reform, especially in healthcare, will evoke questions and resistance if stakeholders don’t feel informed or included in the process. It’s essential for the ministry to proactively address concerns rather than reactively explaining policies after implementation.
**Editor:** There have been reports of resignations among managers and doctors in healthcare institutions, which you have linked to the ongoing reform. Can you elaborate on how these resignations are connected?
**Veryga:** Certainly. When healthcare professionals express dissatisfaction—often stemming from a lack of clarity about changes—it signals bigger issues in morale and trust within the system. While it’s challenging to draw a direct line between specific resignations and the reform, the general sentiment of uncertainty can lead to significant operational disruptions.
**Editor:** Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen has urged not to confuse dissatisfaction with the changes and distress within the healthcare system. What is your stance on this?
**Veryga:** While it’s true that dissatisfaction does not always equate to a crisis, when it comes to healthcare, any unrest can impact patient care and service delivery. It’s critical to distinguish between necessary pushback against changes and genuine operational crises that arise from poorly executed reforms.
**Editor:** In your view, what steps should the government take to address these issues and improve the healthcare reform process?
**Veryga:** Firstly, I recommend an open forum for discussion where healthcare workers, patients, and policymakers can share their perspectives. Additionally, conducting a thorough, evidence-based assessment of current proposals will not only legitimize the reform process but also nurture trust. Transparency is key to ensuring that these changes genuinely benefit the healthcare system and its users.
**Editor:** Thank you, Mr. Veryga, for your insights on this pressing issue. We appreciate your time and expertise.
**Veryga:** Thank you for having me. It’s an important conversation, and I hope we can move toward a more inclusive approach for the benefit of all.