Estonians pay 21% of healthcare costs out of pocket

Estonian patients cover 21% of the country’s healthcare costs themselves, above the European Union average and the World Health Organization’s recommended level of 15%, according to a National Audit Office report cited by ERR.

Healthcare spending in Estonia has risen to €3.3 billion, the report says. Dental care accounts for the largest share of patients’ out-of-pocket payments, followed by nursing and care services and prescription medicines, National Auditor Janar Holm said.

Holm warned that rising out-of-pocket costs can mean people with more money are more likely to receive care. Delaying treatment can make it more expensive later, he said, while early treatment can reduce the risk of serious illness.

The Ministry of Social Affairs is analysing household out-of-pocket costs, with the work expected to be completed by the end of next year. Deputy Secretary General for Health Anniki Lai said the ministry aims to reduce the burden when it prevents people from getting necessary care, and will use the analysis to decide how to target support.

Lai said reaching the WHO’s 15% target would be difficult. Dental care is one area where patients pay a particularly high share and the state contributes relatively little, she said.

Healthcare spending amounted to about 8% of Estonia’s gross domestic product last year, compared with an EU average of 10%. Lai said the current system cannot adequately fund all healthcare services.

Although funding for specialist care has increased by about 70% over the past five years, the number of treatment cases it can provide has fallen by around 8%, Holm said, citing rising costs.