The Elektrėnai municipality's health center has announced the impending closure of its nursing department in Vievys, which has been operational since the Soviet era. This facility, located in a former kindergarten, has provided nursing and palliative care services with a capacity of 35 beds. As of April 1st, all patients are set to be relocated to Elektrėnai hospital, raising concerns regarding the continuity of care for residents in the area.

Officials state that the decision follows a significant decline in the number of patients being treated at the nursing department, with many patients coming from outside the Elektrėnai municipality. The director of the health center, Edita Paberalienė, conveyed that this reduction in local patients has necessitated the shift, and staff redundancies are also planned, with 24 employees already notified of their layoffs. The local government had initially supported the facility's closure due to economic concerns and resource reallocation.

In light of backlash from the community and advocacy for the retention of essential healthcare services, Elektrėnai authorities are reportedly reconsidering their decision and exploring alternative solutions for patient care. This development highlights ongoing tensions in local healthcare administration and the need for accessible medical services within smaller municipalities, especially when many vulnerable populations depend on such facilities for their health and well-being.