Shortage of Family Doctors in Regions Requires More Than Just Extra Pay: Municipal Support Key
One-third of family doctors in Latvia are at or near retirement age, and young doctors often prefer Riga. Although the state has increased bonuses, the decisive role lies with municipalities that provide premises, housing, and other support.
The shortage of family doctors in Latvia’s regions is becoming an everyday reality. In Aizkraukle municipality, 11 out of 17 family doctors may soon retire, while in Jēkabpils, half of the 14 doctors are of retirement age. The state has increased residency positions from 14 in 2007 to 55 in 2024, but interest remains low: in 2024 only 37 of 55 slots were filled, and in 2025, five of the planned 48 positions remained vacant.
To encourage doctors to work in rural areas, the Ministry of Health introduced a new bonus system in March 2025, based on population density and distance to the nearest university hospital. For example, a family doctor in Dagda with 1,416 patients now receives €2,045 per month, up from €560. Practices located more than 100 km away get up to €1,000 extra, and those beyond 250 km receive up to €1,500 if quality criteria are met.
However, as Ainis Dzalbs, president of the Latvian Rural Family Doctors Association, points out, money alone is not enough. Municipal involvement is crucial. Jelgava municipality helped renovate practice facilities, attracting new doctors. In contrast, doctor Žanis Sevastjanovs in Bauska reported fragmented communication with local authorities. Valka municipality offers scholarships and housing, and its head personally visited Rīga Stradiņš University to promote opportunities. In 2025, Smiltene municipality purchased a new ultrasound device for a paramedic point.
According to the National Health Service, 172 family doctors plan to terminate their contracts by 2029, requiring 196 new doctors. However, not all young doctors will choose to work in regions, making municipal support essential.
