Medical treatment in Lithuania for Lithuanians living abroad
Lithuanian citizens living abroad increasingly choose planned medical treatment in Lithuania due to the high quality of medical care and a conveniently organized treatment process. Upon submission of diagnostic information or test results, treatment options are assessed, a recommended treatment plan is prepared, and a treatment cost estimate is provided.
The price is offered on an “all-inclusive” basis, meaning that no additional costs usually arise during the planned course of treatment.
If needed, a remote doctor consultation can also be arranged prior to arrival.
A fully coordinated treatment process
For patients from abroad, it is important that the treatment process is clear and smooth. Therefore, the entire arrival and treatment coordination in Lithuania is managed in one place. The treatment process for patients in Lithuania is coordinated by a specialized team that ensures seamless communication and effective management of medical information.
Treatment process coordination includes:
- A personal medical coordinator throughout the entire course of treatment.
- It also includes assistance with planning travel to Lithuania.
- Patients and accompanying persons are met upon arrival.
- Transportation is arranged, including a car with a driver.
- All required medical documents are translated into English and Russian.
Patients are advised to arrange travel, health, or medical treatment abroad insurance if required by the regulations of their country of residence. After treatment, transfer to a rehabilitation clinic or transportation to the airport can be arranged if needed.
Treatment reimbursement options
Some Lithuanians living abroad may be eligible to use international healthcare reimbursement systems. This depends on the country in which the patient is insured.
Meliva has experience working with patients from the United Kingdom and the European Union and assists in preparing the necessary medical documentation for reimbursement.
Treatment for UK Patients – S2 Document
Patients insured under the UK National Health Service (NHS) may receive planned treatment abroad using the S2 document.
The S2 document allows NHS patients to receive treatment in another country, provided that prior approval from NHS England has been obtained.
The S2 document applies to:
- patients insured under the NHS,
- patients who have received prior approval from NHS England,
- planned (non-emergency) treatment.
Treatment process under the S2 document:
The patient submits an application to the NHS for the S2 document.
Once approval is granted, treatment is organized with an authorized healthcare provider.
Medical services are provided in accordance with the terms approved under the S2 document.
Treatment of EU Patients Under the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive
Patients insured in European Union and European Economic Area (EEA) countries may receive planned treatment in Lithuania under the EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive (2011/24/EU).
This directive allows patients to choose a healthcare provider in another EU or EEA country and later apply for reimbursement of treatment costs in their country of residence.
How the Reimbursement Process Works
The patient pays for medical services at the healthcare institution in Lithuania.
After treatment, all required medical documents and invoices are prepared.
The documents are submitted to the health authority of the patient’s country of residence for reimbursement.
Based on practice, a large proportion of patients successfully recover their treatment costs. The final decision regarding reimbursement is always made by the healthcare authority of the patient’s country of residence.