Fewer queues for orthodontists: Additional funding allocated, clearer procedures established

Lithuania is taking steps to alleviate lengthy waiting lists for orthodontic care, a persistent issue causing significant concern for parents. The Ministry of Health has clarified the scope of services that dentists and orthodontists can provide, coupled with the allocation of additional funding from the Compulsory Health Insurance Fund.

Health Minister Linas Kukuraitis acknowledged the frustration of parents facing months or even years of waiting for their children's orthodontic appointments. He stated that the ministry has acted swiftly to establish clear service protocols and provide extra financing, enabling primary care specialists to take on a greater share of the workload. This, he believes, is a practical measure that will help healthcare facilities better manage their operations and allow families to access services more quickly.

Under the new framework, general dentists with the necessary qualifications can provide certain orthodontic treatments, including the use of removable intraoral appliances and preventive devices. Previously, a lack of specific funding and detailed requirements created ambiguity regarding patient entitlements and provider reimbursement. A key change is the introduction of separate payments for the maintenance of orthodontic devices, such as adjustments and fittings, which were not previously compensated individually.

This additional financial incentive is expected to encourage more primary healthcare institutions to offer these services. The aim is to promote preventive care, enable earlier correction of bite problems, and ultimately avoid more complex and costly orthodontic treatments later on. The clearer funding mechanism will also assist healthcare facilities in planning their resources and specialist schedules more effectively. Institutions wishing to provide these services will need to contract with the National Health Insurance Fund, with the new procedures set to be implemented in stages from November 1, 2026, for primary care and April 1, 2027, for secondary care services.

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I perfectly understand the parents' concern and disappointment when a child needs orthodontic consultations or treatment and they have to wait for months or even years. Together with the ministry's specialists, we have done what was possible to do fastest at this time – we have established a clear service procedure, provided additional funding, and paved the way for primary care specialists to take on part of the load. This is a real step that will help healthcare facilities better plan their work and give families more opportunities to receive services faster.