Union of Greens and Farmers calls for Latvia hospital reform cancellation

The Union of Greens and Farmers (ZZS) parliamentary faction is calling for the cancellation of the government-approved hospital network reform in Latvia. The party argues that the preparation process was flawed and that the reform lacks adequate funding. ZZS claims that the Ministry of Health failed to consult all relevant stakeholders, including local governments and healthcare organizations, during the decision-making process.

ZZS representatives warn that implementing the reform without a comprehensive assessment of its medical, geographic, financial, and social impacts could jeopardize patient safety, regional healthcare accessibility, and the stability of emergency medical services. The party has submitted a 53-page report detailing concerns regarding potential funding reductions for regional hospitals.

Viktors Valainis, the ZZS candidate for Prime Minister, stated that the party may withhold its support for next year's state budget unless the hospital reform issues are significantly revised. Valainis criticized the reform for failing to address the core issue of medical staff shortages and argued that reducing regional funding is a short-sighted approach to the systemic lack of healthcare financing.