Public or Private? | The Healthcare System in Latvia

Latvia, a Baltic nation known for its rich culture and historical charm, has a healthcare system that blends public and private services. With a population of approximately 1.8 million, the country provides universal healthcare funded through taxation and state contributions.

For expats and residents, understanding Latvia’s healthcare system is essential. While public healthcare offers broad coverage, many opt for private healthcare to access faster and higher-quality services.

Latvia’s healthcare system consists of three main levels:

• Primary care: General practitioners (GPs) and outpatient clinics
• Secondary care: Specialist consultations and diagnostic services
• Tertiary care: Advanced hospital treatments and surgical procedures

Structure of the Healthcare System in Latvia

Public healthcare

Latvia’s public healthcare system is managed by the National Health Service (Nacionālais Veselības Dienests - NVD). Residents with a personal identification code (assigned to legal residents) are entitled to publicly funded healthcare services.

Coverage and accessibility

Public healthcare in Latvia includes:

• General practitioner visits
• Specialist consultations (with referrals)
• Hospitalization and surgeries
• Emergency care
• Maternity and pediatric services
• Vaccinations
• Basic dental care (limited coverage for adults)
• Prescription medications (with co-payments)

While Latvia provides universal healthcare, patients often encounter long wait times and regional disparities in service quality.

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How to Register for Health Insurance in Latvia

Residents are automatically entitled to public healthcare if they are legally employed or registered with the NVD. Expats must obtain a Latvian residence permit and personal identification code to access public healthcare.

Government-run healthcare programs

The Latvian government provides healthcare benefits to vulnerable groups, including children, pensioners, and low-income individuals. Additionally, the state covers emergency medical care for all residents.

Private healthcare

Private healthcare in Latvia offers shorter wait times and higher-quality services. Many residents and expats opt for private insurance to cover specialist consultations, elective procedures, and dental care.

Pharmacy healthcare

Pharmacies (aptieka) are widespread in Latvia. Prescription medications require a doctor’s prescription, while over-the-counter drugs are readily available.

Children’s Healthcare in Latvia

Pediatric care is included in public healthcare and covers:

• Routine check-ups
• Immunizations
• Treatment for childhood illnesses

Parents can also opt for private pediatricians for faster and more personalized care.

Latvian Dentists

Basic dental care is covered for children under public healthcare, but adult services are limited. Most residents use private dental clinics for routine and specialized dental treatments.

Mental Healthcare in Latvia

Public mental health services are available, but long wait times often lead residents to seek private psychological and psychiatric care.

Other Forms of Healthcare in Latvia

Alternative medicine, such as homeopathy and naturopathy, is available but generally not covered by public insurance.

Emergency healthcare

Emergency medical care is available to all residents and visitors, regardless of insurance status. Public hospitals operate 24/7 emergency departments.

What to Do in an Emergency

For medical emergencies, dial 113. Emergency services are free of charge in public hospitals.

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Access and Coverage for Free Healthcare in Latvia

Who is covered under public healthcare in Latvia?

All legal residents with a Latvian personal identification code have access to public healthcare services. Some treatments require co-payments.

Waiting times and availability of services in Latvia

Public healthcare services maintain high standards, but wait times for specialists and elective procedures can be lengthy.

Geographic disparities in healthcare access in Latvia

Healthcare quality is generally better in Riga and other major cities, while rural areas may have fewer specialists and facilities.

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‍Access and Coverage for Private Healthcare in Latvia

Private insurance options

Many residents and expats purchase private health insurance for faster access to medical services. Private healthcare providers offer specialized treatments and English-speaking doctors.

Popular insurance networks and hospitals

Renowned private hospitals and clinics in Latvia include AIWA Clinic, Veselības centrs 4, and Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital for high-quality care.

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Quality of Healthcare in Latvia

Standards and regulations in Latvia

Latvia’s healthcare system follows EU standards, ensuring quality care in both public and private sectors.

Comparison of public vs. private healthcare quality in Latvia

While public healthcare is affordable and provides essential services, private healthcare is preferred for shorter wait times and better amenities.

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Out-of-pocket Expanditure

regional comparison

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Useful Resources

• GlobalPassport Latvia webpage: https://www.globalpassport.ai/destinations/latvia
• National Health Service (NVD): https://www.vmnvd.gov.lv/
• Ministry of Health of Latvia: https://www.vm.gov.lv/
• Emergency Services in Latvia: Dial 113 for immediate assistance

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