Kaunas district launches first citizens' assembly on healthcare

The Kaunas district municipality has launched its first citizens' assembly, a direct democracy initiative designed to involve residents in local decision-making. A group of 30 citizens, selected by lottery from 174 applicants, represents various age groups and 23 different elderships within the district.

The assembly's primary focus is to address how to ensure that preventive healthcare services are accessible to all population groups. Participants will study regional health indicators, examine the functioning of national and municipal health systems, and listen to expert presentations to identify barriers to timely health check-ups.

The process is structured in three stages: theoretical preparation and expert briefings, facilitated group discussions, and a final official vote on recommendations. Once completed, the resulting document of recommendations will be submitted to the Kaunas district mayor and the municipal council for evaluation and potential implementation into local health policy.