President Alar Karis on Tuesday approved several laws related to the social sector. Among them is an increase in the fee for an appointment with a specialist doctor from the current five euros to 20 euros from April next year, and also ending support for single pensioners who receive 24-hour care.
BNS writes about this with reference to Rus.Postimees. From 1 January 2025, the basic premium for prescription drugs for insured persons will increase from 2.5 to 3.5 euros. from April 1, 2025, the fee for a bed day in a hospital will increase from 2.5 to 5 euros, and for an appointment with a specialist – from 5 to 20 euros.
Though, the fee increase will not effect vulnerable groups such as pensioners, children, the unemployed and others. in cases where the patient does not show up for an appointment or when it is canceled less than 24 hours in advance, a double fee may be charged.
In line with changes to the Social Welfare Act, support payments for single pensioners who are in 24-hour care, special care or living in social institutions will end. Support will only be paid to those pensioners who live alone and whose income does not exceed the established limit – in 2024 this is 853 euros.
Changes to the Social Welfare Act and the Sales Tax Act aim to improve access to psychosocial and psychological care at the local level. Funding for these services will be included in local government annual support funds in proportion to population size,wich is particularly vital for smaller municipalities.
According to the law on Amendments to the Law on Family Benefits and Other Laws,from January 1,2026,the maximum amount of the parental benefit will be reduced. Instead of three times the average salary for the previous year, it will be twice the average salary. In 2024, the parental benefit ceiling is €4,733. However, parental benefit will no longer be reduced if the parent continues to work and earn an income.
From 1 January 2026, payments for temporary disability will be restricted. The maximum benefit for one day of temporary disability will be calculated by analogy with parental benefits – as twice the average salary for the previous year, divided by 30. Employers and individual entrepreneurs will be able to compensate for the difference between the benefit limit and the lost salary without taxation with social tax.
The law also allows the use of a larger amount of retained earnings from the Health Insurance Fund to cover the shortfall. The possibility of a claim for reimbursement of treatment costs from uninsured citizens is being introduced. In addition,from the begining of next year,the processing time for applications for family benefits,which determines the level of disability and assigns a state pension,will be extended to 30 working days.The tax law has been amended, according to which sick leave benefits paid by employers and the Health Insurance Fund, as well as settlement benefits for individual entrepreneurs, are subject to taxation.
The Arms Act Amendment Act and related laws create a competitive environment for the defence industry in Estonia. The changes provide an prospect for entrepreneurs from countries amiable to Estonia and cooperating in the field of defense to invest in Estonia’s defense industry.
According to the law, the production of vehicles, water and air transport, as well as other products is allowed without a license on the basis of the weapons law, if they are not equipped with weapons during the production process. In addition, the screening process for employees, contractors and service providers involved in the production of weapons and ammunition will be more cost effective. Voluntary surrender of illegally owned military weapons to the police or border security department is also decriminalized.
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What are the potential consequences of increased healthcare fees for low-income individuals in Estonia?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Social policy Expert
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today. We’re here to discuss President Alar Karis’s recent approval of several laws impacting the social sector, which has stirred up significant discussion across Estonia. with us is Dr. Marja Tamm, a social policy expert. Dr. Tamm, can you give us a brief overview of what thes changes entail?
Dr.Marja Tamm: Absolutely! the recent changes approved involve two major adjustments.First, starting in April next year, the fee for an appointment with a specialist doctor will rise dramatically from five euros to twenty euros. Secondly, ther will be a cessation of support for single pensioners who rely on 24-hour care. Additionally,there’s a planned increase in the basic premium for prescription drugs,set to rise from 2.5 to 3.5 euros in January 2025.
Time.news Editor: That’s quiet a change, indeed. What do you think prompted the government to implement such significant increases in healthcare fees?
Dr. marja Tamm: Well, there are several factors at play here. The government is highly likely looking at the need to increase funding to the healthcare system as a whole.By increasing appointment fees, they might aim to ensure better resources for specialist doctors and improve the overall quality of care. Though, it raises concerns about access to necessary medical services, especially for lower-income individuals and families.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of access, the decision to end support for single pensioners receiving 24-hour care is troubling for many. What impact might this have on those individuals and their families?
Dr. Marja Tamm: this is indeed a significant concern. Many single pensioners rely heavily on that support for their everyday needs and in many cases, it ensures their dignity and well-being. Without this support, we might see an increase in health complications and a greater burden on family members who already might potentially be stretched thin. The government needs to find a balance between budget constraints and the health and safety of vulnerable populations.
Time.news Editor: The planned increase of prescription drug premiums also seems controversial.How do you think this will affect patients, particularly those with chronic conditions?
Dr. Marja Tamm: The increase in prescription drug premiums will undoubtedly put additional strain on patients, particularly those with chronic conditions who rely on medications to maintain their health. For many, even a slight increase can make a significant difference in their budget. This change could push some individuals to make arduous choices about whether to fill their prescriptions, potentially jeopardizing their health.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like these new laws will have far-reaching consequences. How do you think the public will respond, and what should the government do to mitigate negative impacts?
Dr. Marja Tamm: I expect there will be considerable pushback from the public, especially from advocacy groups representing pensioners and low-income families. To mitigate negative impacts, the government could consider implementing transitional support measures for impacted groups or potentially re-evaluating the necessity of these increases.Public engagement and transparent interaction about the rationale for these changes will also be crucial in restoring public trust.
Time.news Editor: Thank you,Dr. Tamm, for your insights into these vital social policy changes. It’s clear that while the government may have its reasons,the implications for society,particularly for vulnerable populations,will be profound. We appreciate your expertise today.
Dr.Marja Tamm: Thank you for having me. It’s essential that discussions around these policies continue as they develop.