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 raised by the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party regarding the healthcare reform?
**Interview with Dr. Rūta Šeškaitė, Healthcare Policy Analyst**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Šeškaitė. The Lithuanian Social Democratic Party has recently called for a halt to the healthcare reform. What are the primary concerns they have raised?
**Dr. Šeškaitė:** Thank you for having me. The Social Democrats are advocating for a detailed and public review of the healthcare network reform, emphasizing the need for an evidence-based assessment. They argue that the current reform lacks transparency and sufficient communication with those who will be directly affected, including patients and healthcare professionals.
**Editor:** The ruling conservatives have defended the reform, stating that systemic changes often face resistance. What are your thoughts on that perspective?
**Dr. Šeškaitė:** It’s true that systemic changes in healthcare are often contentious. However, effective communication is crucial during such transitions. The Speaker of the Seimas mentioned the importance of providing clear information, which seems to be a gap in the current approach. Cultivating trust and understanding among stakeholders is essential for successful reform.
**Editor:** There have been reports of resignations among healthcare managers and doctors, which former Health Minister Aurelijs Veryga attributes to the ongoing reform. How significant do you think this issue is?
**Dr. Šeškaitė:** Resignations can be a serious indicator of discontent within the healthcare sector. They suggest that the reform is creating uncertainty and perhaps frustration among professionals. This can lead to a brain drain in the system, which would only exacerbate existing challenges. The government must address these concerns proactively to prevent further disruptions.
**Editor:** V. Čmilytė-Nielsen, the current Speaker of the Seimas, urged not to conflate dissatisfaction with resignations. Can you elaborate on what she might be implying?
**Dr. Šeškaitė:** It appears she is suggesting that the dissatisfaction may stem from several factors unrelated to the reforms themselves. However, it’s essential to understand that any dissatisfaction can still affect the implementation of the reforms. This emphasizes the need for dialogue with all stakeholders to navigate these challenges effectively.
**Editor:** what steps do you think should be taken moving forward?
**Dr. Šeškaitė:** First, a comprehensive and inclusive review of the reform process is paramount. Engaging with healthcare professionals and the public to gather their feedback will help identify the specific areas causing concern. Secondly, clear communication from the government about the goals and expected outcomes of the reform is vital to build trust and buy-in. Without these steps, the reform risks losing its validity and effectiveness.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Šeškaitė, for your insights on this important issue. We appreciate your time.
**Dr. Šeškaitė:** Thank you for having me. It’s a critical time for healthcare in Lithuania, and I hope for constructive discussions ahead.