PERH chief warns treatment remains out of reach despite funding

Estonia still has major gaps in access to treatment despite increased healthcare funding, Jarno Habicht, the new head of the North Estonia Medical Centre, said in an interview with ERR’s “First Studio” programme.

A recent report by the National Audit Office found that waiting times exceed the limits set by rules. It also estimated that nearly 10 percent of treatment needs are unfunded, amounting to almost 300,000 cases. Habicht said it was important to identify who is affected, where they live and what services they need.

Healthcare funding has risen by 70 percent since 2019, but fewer appointments are taking place. Habicht said money had gone towards infrastructure, medical technology and salaries for doctors and nurses. He said investment had helped Estonia offer modern, safe and caring treatment, but care was also becoming more expensive.

Higher energy prices and medicine supply chains are among the factors pushing up costs, he said. Habicht added that spending on technology was needed to provide up-to-date care, while competitive salaries helped retain doctors and nurses in Estonia.

He said efficiency should not be equated with cost-cutting, as investment can be necessary to provide better treatment and improve quality of life. To curb inequality, healthcare services should be available more evenly across Estonia, he said.

Habicht also called for discussion about the future of solidarity-based health insurance. He said Estonia should broaden the system’s funding base beyond labour taxes and ensure that everyone has health insurance.