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 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 restructuring does not take into account the expansion 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 government enhance stakeholder engagement during healthcare reform discussions?
**Interview with Dr. Giedrius Marcinkėnas, Healthcare Policy Expert**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Marcinkėnas. The recent appeal by the opposition Lithuanian Social Democratic Party for a public review of healthcare reform has sparked significant discussion. What are your thoughts on their request for an evidence-based assessment?
**Dr. Marcinkėnas**: Thank you for having me. The call for a comprehensive and transparent review is crucial, especially considering the complexities surrounding systemic healthcare reforms. An evidence-based approach ensures that decisions are informed and consider the needs of all stakeholders, particularly patients and healthcare providers.
**Interviewer**: The ruling conservatives seem to have rejected this criticism. The Speaker of the Seimas emphasized that “not a single reform passes without resistance.” Do you think this resistance is normal in systemic changes?
**Dr. Marcinkėnas**: Absolutely. Change, especially in healthcare, is met with resistance due to the nature of the sector—it affects people’s lives directly. It is vital for the government to engage stakeholders early in the process. Effective communication and public involvement can mitigate some of this resistance.
**Interviewer**: We’ve seen reports of resignations among healthcare managers and doctors tied to the ongoing reforms. How do you see this affecting the healthcare system in Lithuania?
**Dr. Marcinkėnas**: These resignations could lead to a staffing crisis, which may exacerbate existing issues within the healthcare system. A lack of experienced personnel can hinder the implementation of reforms and negatively impact patient care. It’s essential for the ministry to address these concerns and foster a supportive environment for healthcare professionals.
**Interviewer**: The Speaker of the Seimas mentioned the need for better communication regarding the reforms. What strategies could the government implement to improve this?
**Dr. Marcinkėnas**: The government needs to facilitate open forums where healthcare professionals can express their concerns and suggestions. Regular updates, public consultations, and transparent reporting on the progress and challenges of reforms can help build trust. Engaging with affected communities ensures that reforms serve their intended purpose.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Dr. Marcinkėnas, for your insights on this important issue. As the situation develops, clear communication and stakeholder engagement will be crucial for the success of Lithuania’s healthcare reforms.
**Dr. Marcinkėnas**: Thank you for having me. I hope for positive changes in the healthcare landscape in Lithuania.