Lithuanian healthmin pushes reforms, cites high mortality in some hospitals

VILNIUS – The hospital network in Lithuania needs an overhaul as many beds remain empty and others are occupied unnecessarily. Besides, services in some hospital are unsafe, Health Minister Aurelijus Veryga says.

"There are hospitals where heart attack mortality is 100 percent within 30 days from the arrival to such an establishment. And there are institutions working effectively, with the mortality rate standing at just 7.42 percent. So the difference is over ten times," he told lawmakers deliberating the healthcare reform.

He asked the parliament to back a government-drafter package of laws giving the minister the power to establish a network of state-run hospitals, necessary to ensure required medical assistance.

The Seimas of Lithuania on Tuesday gave its initial backing to the bill with 59 votes in favor, 22 against and 26 abstentions.

The parliament plans to adopt the package later this week.