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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#Speaker #Seimas #health #reform #sufficiently #explained #affect
How can the Ministry of Health improve communication with stakeholders during the reform process to address concerns effectively?
**Interview with Aurelijs Veryga, Former Minister of Health of Lithuania**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Aurelijs. The Lithuanian Social Democratic Party has called for a halt to the healthcare reform. What are your thoughts on their appeal?
**Aurelijs Veryga:** Thank you for having me. I believe the appeal reflects widespread concerns within the healthcare community. With any major reform, there’s bound to be resistance, especially when it involves systemic changes that impact people’s livelihoods and health services.
**Interviewer:** The ruling conservatives have rejected this criticism, suggesting that reforms always face pushback. Do you agree with that perspective?
**Aurelijs Veryga:** While it’s true that major reforms can be contentious, that doesn’t mean dissent should be dismissed. The Speaker of the Seimas commented on the need for better communication and preparation, which I completely agree with. If information isn’t effectively relayed to stakeholders, misunderstandings will occur, leading to dissatisfaction and mistrust.
**Interviewer:** You’ve mentioned resignations in healthcare institutions recently. Do you attribute these to the proposed reforms?
**Aurelijs Veryga:** Yes, I believe there is a correlation. When significant changes are on the horizon, it can create uncertainty and stress in the workforce. While some resignations may stem from unrelated personal reasons, it’s crucial to recognize that the ongoing reform could exacerbate the situation.
**Interviewer:** The current Speaker also suggested that it’s essential for the Ministry to provide clear information about the reforms. Do you think they are doing enough in this regard?
**Aurelijs Veryga:** Clearly, there is room for improvement. Transparency and open dialogue are vital. Stakeholders need to feel included in the process, and concerns should be addressed in real-time, not after issues arise. A well-informed community can better adapt to changes.
**Interviewer:** the Speaker urged not to confuse dissatisfaction with general resistance to change. What’s your perspective?
**Aurelijs Veryga:** That’s a nuanced point. While some resistance is natural in any reform, it’s important to distinguish between legitimate concerns—the type that requires attention and modification—and mere reluctance. Listening to the voices of those affected can guide adjustments that not only serve administrative goals but also enhance patient care.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Aurelijs, for sharing your insights on this important issue.
**Aurelijs Veryga:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we continue this conversation as reforms evolve.
