Long wait times for dermatologists are a widespread issue, with solutions like telemedicine being explored.
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Long waiting lists for dermatologists are a problem not only in Lithuania but also in other countries. Some patients report waiting half a year or more for appointments, with one case showing waiting times increasing from June 2024 to February 2025. While some find quicker appointments in private clinics, they are advised to return to public institutions for certain procedures. Experts explain that waiting times depend on whether a patient has a referral from a general practitioner; those without referrals face much longer waits, potentially up to two years, while those with referrals or suspected skin cancer have faster access. The issue is partly attributed to the specialty’s breadth and the public sector’s inability to compete with private sector salaries. To improve access, telemedicine services are planned for 2026, allowing general practitioners to handle initial assessments remotely. While the situation varies by city and institution, the problem of long waits is not unique to Lithuania, with comparable long waits reported in the UK and Belgium.
