Estonia: Health System Review.

Area of Science:

• Health policy and systems research
• Public health and epidemiology
• Health economics

Background:

• Estonia's health system faces challenges despite steady public expenditure growth.
• Out-of-pocket payments remain high, impacting financial protection.
• Progress in life expectancy has been hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze recent developments and performance of the Estonian health system.
• To identify key challenges and areas for reform in Estonia's healthcare.
• To assess health system financing, provision, and equity.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of health system organization and governance.
• Review of health financing mechanisms and expenditure.
• Examination of health care provision and reform impacts.

Main Results:

• Estonia spends below the EU average on health per capita, with increasing public funding.
• Life expectancy gains are notable but insufficient to meet targets; pandemic caused setbacks.
• High out-of-pocket payments and socioeconomic health inequalities persist.

Conclusions:

• Estonia's health system requires strengthened financial protection and efforts to reduce health inequalities.
• Addressing shortages in primary and mental health care is crucial for the aging population.
• Modernizing public health and improving care coordination are essential for future performance.