Nine more providers to offer state-funded ophthalmology services

Nine medical institutions will begin offering state-funded ophthalmology services for the first time in 2027, bringing the total number offered contracts to 64, LSM reports, citing the National Health Service (NVD).

The contracts are due to start on January 1, 2027. Under a new selection approach, one quality criterion will require providers to offer eye care to both adults and children. The aim is to make care more responsive to patients’ needs and improve access in the regions.

Providers that will no longer have state contracts must contact patients booked for ophthalmologist consultations next year so they can make new appointments. No referral is needed for an ophthalmologist consultation. Patients already booked for eye surgery in a day hospital should not see their appointments changed, the NVD said.

Referrals are required for other ophthalmological services. Patients can choose another provider and make a new appointment using the same electronic referral.

The selection process aims to ensure equal access to quality state-funded outpatient services across Latvia. It is intended to prevent delays or missed procedures when patients cannot find a suitable provider after being referred for treatment in a day hospital.