The government has supported amendments to the healthcare financing law. The main change concerns linking the right to state-funded medical assistance to the declared place of residence in Latvia. The establishment of the National Health Fund is being postponed.
The government has supported amendments to the healthcare financing law, LETA reported. The main change concerns linking the right to state-funded medical assistance to the declared place of residence in Latvia. The establishment of the National Health Fund is being postponed.
"The two-basket model does not work"
The Ministry of Health acknowledges that the principle of two baskets has not been implemented: services were provided to everyone, regardless of contributions. Now, to receive paid assistance, the place of residence in Latvia must be declared at least a month before seeking help. Exceptions remain for protected groups — newborns, victims in criminal proceedings, pensioners, EU students, and other categories.
"The introduction of the declaration principle will limit access for those living abroad"
The amendments will affect Latvian citizens who have declared living abroad. According to PMLP, there are more than two hundred thousand such individuals, and some regularly use Latvian healthcare. The Ministry of Health claims that this reduces the availability of services for those who live and work in the country.
NVD will also continue to return funds to the budget through regress and international settlements. In 2025, a return of more than one and a half million euros is expected. The amendments also expand the list of patients exempt from co-payments for addiction treatment: individuals with a pathological gambling addiction are added to the current categories.
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