LLUMINAS

On 12–13 May, international experts from the Erasmus University Medical Center in the Netherlands visited Latvia to discuss the development of improvements in cancer screening and oncology patient healthcare, as well as data-driven healthcare planning in Latvia. The meetings took place within the framework of the European Union’s Technical Support Instrument project “Improving Cancer Screening and Care in Latvia and Luxembourg” (LLUMINAS).

Effectiveness and Sustainability

LLUMINAS is a European Commission-supported project aimed at helping countries strengthen evidence-based and health economics modelling-driven decision-making in oncology, with particular focus on the effectiveness and sustainability of cancer prevention, screening, diagnostic and treatment measures. During the visit, representatives from the Ministry of Health, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the National Health Service, the Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, the Latvian Digital Health Centre, clinical university hospitals, academic and international experts discussed the next steps in advancing the oncology field in Latvia, paying particular attention to early diagnosis, the quality of screening and healthcare efficiency. The event was also attended by Professor Marcis Leja, Director of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine at the University of Latvia, and Scientific Coordinator of EUCanScreen.

Plan for Improving Healthcare Services in Oncology for 2025–2027

During the visit, thematic working groups and expert discussions were held on improving the governance and quality of the cancer screening system, modelling cancer treatment costs and assessing cost-effectiveness, developing digital solutions and data systems in cancer care, and the progress of implementing the “Plan for Improving Healthcare Services in Oncology for 2025–2027”. Particular attention was devoted to the development of the state-organised cancer screening system, including strengthening the monitoring of screening quality, improving patient pathways following a positive screening result, enhancing screening data management, and developing digital solutions. Discussions also covered solutions for developing a unified screening quality system, improving the efficiency of patient pathways, and ensuring more equal access to screening services throughout Latvia.

International Cooperation

International cooperation is essential for strengthening evidence-based oncology policy in Latvia and ensuring patients receive higher-quality, more timely and more effective cancer care. Representatives of the Ministry of Health emphasised that Latvia is purposefully developing the oncology sector by strengthening early diagnosis, screening quality, personalised treatment and data-driven decision-making. The international expertise provided through the LLUMINAS project helps evaluate the existing system and identify the most sustainable solutions for the benefit of patients.

Health Economics Modelling

Within the framework of the LLUMINAS project, Latvia is developing health economics modelling and evaluating the most effective investments in oncology in order to promote early diagnosis, improve treatment outcomes and ensure the sustainable development of the healthcare system.