The implementation of the two basket system has been repeatedly postponed for political reasons. Currently, state-funded health services are provided regardless of the paid insurance contributions. The divided system includes a basic basket of medical services and a full basket for socially insured individuals, certain socially disadvantaged groups, and those who voluntarily make contributions to health insurance. The annotation states that in November of last year, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the amendments to the health financing law developed by the Ministry of Health. This was accompanied by multiple discussions with stakeholders, including social partners. However, the amendments approved by the Cabinet have not yet been considered by the Saeima. Therefore, without new changes, the regulation on the two baskets is set to come into force on January 1, 2027. To prevent this, a postponement until December 31, 2027, is provided. As reported, in June, the Saeima already supported the postponement of the introduction of the two basket system until December 31, 2026. At the end of September, the Saeima's Commission on Social and Labor Affairs resumed discussions on changes to the health financing model. Deputy State Secretary of the Ministry of Health Boris Knigin stated that by the end of the year, the ministry would propose a new model; however, it would be difficult for the Saeima to reach an agreement on it in the remaining time of its work. Knigin also noted that it is impossible to establish the systems necessary for administering the two baskets by January 1, as there is insufficient information and unresolved budget-related issues.
