Public or Private? | The Healthcare System in Lithuania

Lithuania, a Baltic nation known for its historical heritage and rapidly developing economy, provides a healthcare system that combines public and private services. With a population of approximately 2.8 million, Lithuania offers universal healthcare funded through taxation and state contributions.

For expats and residents, understanding Lithuania’s healthcare system is essential. While public healthcare provides broad coverage, many opt for private healthcare for shorter wait times and higher-quality services.

Lithuania’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 Lithuania

Public healthcare

Lithuania’s public healthcare system is managed by the Compulsory Health Insurance Fund (Privalomasis Sveikatos Draudimas - PSD). Residents who contribute to this system are entitled to publicly funded healthcare services.

Coverage and accessibility

Public healthcare in Lithuania 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)

Although Lithuania provides universal healthcare, patients often experience long wait times for specialist care and elective procedures.

‍

‍

‍

How to Register for Health Insurance in Lithuania

Residents contributing to the PSD system receive access to public healthcare. Expats must obtain a residence permit and register with the National Health Insurance Fund (Valstybinė ligonių kasa - VLK) to benefit from public healthcare services.

Government-run healthcare programs

The Lithuanian government provides healthcare benefits to vulnerable groups, including children, pensioners, and low-income individuals. Emergency medical care is available to all residents.

Private healthcare

Private healthcare in Lithuania is widely used for quicker access to specialists and elective procedures. Many residents and expats purchase private insurance for additional coverage and faster service.

Pharmacy healthcare

Pharmacies (vaistinė) are common in Lithuania. Prescription medications require a doctor’s approval, while over-the-counter drugs are readily available.

Children’s Healthcare in Lithuania

Pediatric care is included in public healthcare and covers:

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

Many parents also choose private pediatricians for more specialized and immediate care.

Lithuanian Dentists

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

Mental Healthcare in Lithuania

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

Other Forms of Healthcare in Lithuania

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 112. Emergency services are free of charge in public hospitals.

‍

Access and Coverage for Free Healthcare in Lithuania

Who is covered under public healthcare in Lithuania?

All legal residents who contribute to the PSD system have access to public healthcare services. Some treatments require co-payments.

Waiting times and availability of services in Lithuania

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

Geographic disparities in healthcare access in Lithuania

Healthcare quality is generally better in major cities like Vilnius and Kaunas, while rural areas may have fewer specialists and facilities.

‍

Access and Coverage for Private Healthcare in Lithuania

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 Lithuania include Baltic American Clinic, Northway Medical Center, and Kardiolita Clinic for high-quality care.

‍

Quality of Healthcare in Lithuania

Standards and regulations in Lithuania

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

Comparison of public vs. private healthcare quality in Lithuania

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

‍

Out-of-pocket Expenditure

regional comparison

‍

‍

Useful Resources

• National Health Insurance Fund (VLK): https://www.vlk.lt/
• Ministry of Health of Lithuania: https://sam.lrv.lt/
• Emergency Services in Lithuania: Dial 112 for immediate assistance

‍