TV debate questions whether an extra billion euros would fix Latvia's healthcare system

A discussion on TV24's programme "Runāsim atklāti" centered on whether a substantial funding boost — as much as one billion euros — could genuinely improve Latvia's healthcare system.

Ramona Petraviča, a member of the 14th Saeima's Social and Labour Affairs Committee's Public Health Subcommittee, expressed skepticism, recalling that the sector had previously received around 250 million euros with promises of shorter waiting lists and better access to care. She questioned whether any patient truly felt the impact of that funding.

Minister cites specific improvements

Health Minister Hosams Abu Meri responded that he receives feedback from patients about improvements. As an example, he cited reimbursable medication funding, which has grown from roughly 280 million to 340 million euros over the past two years. Funding for innovative medications, including in oncology, has also risen significantly — from about 39 million to 80 million euros.

The minister also pointed to other changes: the maximum individual compensation limit was raised from 10,000 to 30,000 euros, and a new fund was created for patients who cannot receive necessary treatment or medication in Latvia and must seek it abroad.

Abu Meri acknowledged that the healthcare system still faces many problems that available funding cannot solve all at once. However, he stressed that efforts are being made to direct funding toward areas where it can bring patients the greatest benefit.