DEVYNIOLIKTOSIOS LIETUVOS RESPUBLIKOS VYRIAUSYBĖS PROGRAMOS ANALIZĖ SVEIKATOS SRITYJE

Abstract

This study applies a qualitative research approach using semi-structured expert interviews to evaluate the quality of the health policy content in the Nineteenth Government Program of Lithuania. The primary objective is to assess how well the program reflects key challenges in the healthcare system and whether it provides a coherent and feasible strategy for implementing reforms.
The research was conducted in two stages. The first stage involved analyzing the opinions of policymakers, including three former Ministers of Health, a former Vice Minister of Health, members of the Seimas Health Affairs Committee, a government health policy advisor, and independent legal experts. The second stage incorporated perspectives from representatives of hospitals, polyclinics, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the academic community to provide a broader evaluation.The findings indicate that while the program identifies major healthcare challenges—such as demographic aging, regional disparities, financial sustainability, and mental health issues—it lacks a clear implementation strategy and specific success indicators. The program primarily outlines strategic directions but does not define concrete mechanisms for achieving its goals. Policymakers have deliberately left room for adjustments in response to unforeseen circumstances, including geopolitical crises, economic fluctuations, and technological advancements. Key concerns include the ambiguity of healthcare financing solutions, the unclear balance between public and private sector engagement, and the insufficient integration of long-term care into social services. Furthermore, the program lacks a structured approach to addressing regional inequalities in healthcare access and does not specify measurable targets to track reform progress. The study concludes that the success of the proposed reforms will depend on political commitment, financial resources, and the establishment of an effective implementation framework. Without a clearly defined plan and monitoring mechanisms, the program risks remaining a set of aspirational goals rather than achieving tangible policy outcomes.

Keywords: Health policy, healthcare system reform, regional disparities, healthcare financing, preventive medicine, specialist shortages, e-health and innovations, intersectoral cooperation.