The Latvian government has made decisions regarding the regulation of drug prices, and according to Inggrida Circeņe, a deputy of the 14th Saeima and former Minister of Health, this has for the first time become direct support for patients — some medications have decreased in price by almost half, while others, on the contrary, have increased.
In the TV24 program "Ziņu top," Inggrida Circeņe acknowledged that the decisions made by the government regarding the regulation of drug prices this time directly correspond to the interests of patients.
"This time the government stands by the patients," emphasized Circeņe, explaining that for part of society, drug prices have significantly decreased after the reform.
For example, those who previously paid about 30 euros for medications now buy them for 16–18 euros. At the same time, another part of society feels the opposite effect, as the cheapest medications have become more expensive.
"If I buy medications for three or four euros, and an additional 0.75 euros is added to that price, then the price becomes higher," explained Circeņe.
She reminded that discussions about the goals of the reform began right after the New Year, and it became clear that not all results met the initial expectations. However, the deputy emphasized that this is direct support for residents, as pharmacies do not gain more or less from this.
Patients who buy several medications daily especially feel the price changes. "Imagine if a person takes three medications — that’s already an additional two and a half euros. For many, that’s a lot of money," added Circeņe.
In her opinion, this is an important step for residents to feel more confident, knowing that the government is capable of establishing frameworks in the field of medications that help patients. "With medications, we have come to a certain system so that people can purchase them," concluded Circeņe.
Leave a comment