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.
#Speaker #Seimas #health #reform #sufficiently #explained #affect
What are the main challenges facing healthcare reform in Lithuania according to Dr. Veryga?
**Interview with Dr. Aurelijs Veryga, Former Minister of Health of Lithuania**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Veryga. The Lithuanian Social Democratic Party recently called for a halt to the healthcare reform and an open review process. What are your thoughts on this appeal?
**Dr. Veryga:** Thank you for having me. I believe it’s important to listen to the concerns raised by the opposition. Healthcare reform is a complex issue that affects many lives, and any major systemic change should be approached with caution and thorough public discourse.
**Interviewer:** The ruling conservatives have rejected these criticisms, arguing that resistance to reform is common. Do you agree with their approach?
**Dr. Veryga:** While it’s true that resistance is a natural part of any reform process, the key lies in how the government engages with the public and stakeholders. If there are significant questions and dissatisfaction, as indicated by reports of resignations among healthcare managers and doctors, it’s crucial that the Ministry of Health addresses these concerns transparently.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of resignations, what do you believe is driving this trend in the healthcare sector amidst ongoing reforms?
**Dr. Veryga:** I think there is a sense of instability and uncertainty as these reforms are rolled out. Many healthcare professionals are concerned about how these changes will directly impact their work and, more importantly, the quality of care that patients receive. If they feel unsupported or inadequately informed, it can lead to resignations.
**Interviewer:** The current Speaker of the Seimas mentioned that responses and information should have been provided before the reform began. Do you agree with her perspective?
**Dr. Veryga:** Absolutely. Effective communication is fundamental in any reform initiative. The Ministry should proactively provide comprehensive information to those affected and engage in dialogue, rather than react after the fact. This would help alleviate concerns and foster a sense of trust in the reform process.
**Interviewer:** What do you think the next steps should be for the government in addressing these issues?
**Dr. Veryga:** The government needs to pause and reflect. They should conduct an evidence-based review of the reform and engage with healthcare professionals, patients, and the public to gather insights and feedback. An inclusive approach can lead to stronger, more sustainable reforms that benefit everyone.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Dr. Veryga. Your perspective is invaluable as this situation continues to unfold.
**Dr. Veryga:** Thank you for having me. I hope we see constructive dialogue that leads to meaningful improvements in our healthcare system.
