Health policy development in Lithuania

The process of formulating a national health policy in Lithuania, a country in transition, has undergone several stages. Despite the existence of a national critical mass of professionals who understand the major principles of health policy development and who have a solid database to scientifically back the suggested decisions, and despite general acceptance by the public of the broader dimensions of health, the actual process of developing health policy is still facing considerable difficulty. Many factors obstruct this process, such as the inflexibility and resistance of the medical profession, traditions from the previous health service model and an extremely difficult economic situation. Nevertheless, one of the most important factors is the frequent change of government and, subsequently, of ministers of health, which makes continuity difficult. Fortunately, however, in contrast to the political level, the health professionals involved in health policy development and implementation assure at least one level of this necessary continuity. As a result of continuous efforts by the Health Reform Management Group and research and education institutions, and with the constant support of WHO, a policy and strategy for health for all continues to be developed, and the groundwork is being laid for improved dialogue and participation.