The government approves a transitional period of 12 months for access to palliative care

The government has approved a transitional period of 12 months to facilitate access for insured individuals to palliative care, considering that the national palliative care program has not been implemented until now. This measure ensures the continuity of medical services for patients who require palliative care, avoiding blocking access to these essential services.

During the transition period, patients will be able to benefit from palliative care at home, in specialized outpatient clinics, and in day hospitalization, all of which are part of the basic service package regulated by Government Decision no. 521/2023. Access to these services is conditioned on the fact that patients do not receive similar care under the new curative health program. Health insurance houses will be able to conclude contracts with palliative care providers, including for home and outpatient services. Additionally, the administrative process will be simplified, allowing providers who had contractual relationships as of December 31, 2025, to continue without a new contracting period.