Gynecology Department Closure Sparks Concern in Lithuania

Biržai Hospital in Lithuania has announced a temporary suspension of its gynecology department for three weeks this summer, a move the hospital administration attributes to seasonal reductions in patient flow and a need for cost efficiency.

Petras Bimba, the hospital director, explained that during the summer, patient numbers, surgeries, and emergency cases in the gynecology department decrease significantly. To avoid operating the department with minimal patients, its activity will be paused, allowing for savings on hospital funds and staff wages. The department's license will be renewed afterward, and it will resume normal operations.

Bimba assured that urgent gynecological care will still be available. Only one to three patients typically require such services during this period, and they will be transported by ambulance to the Panevėžys Republican Hospital. He emphasized that emergency medical teams, including on-call doctors, surgeons, and anesthesiologists, will remain available at Biržai Hospital, and gynecologists are working at primary healthcare centers.

Despite the hospital's assurances, the decision has drawn criticism on social media, with some residents expressing concern and irony. One comment sarcastically advised women not to get pregnant or give birth while doctors are on vacation. The hospital reiterated that while the department is temporarily closed, all necessary services will be provided at the Panevėžys facility, and emergency transport is guaranteed.