Main frustrations of Romanians regarding the healthcare system

A study conducted by sociologist Barbu Mateescu at the request of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS), published in January 2025, emphasizes the high level of dissatisfaction among Romanians regarding public services, including healthcare.

The research involved discussions with citizens from across the country, revealing that frustration over poor-quality medical services is one of the primary concerns of the population ahead of the 2025 presidential elections.

Participants from rural areas, especially in Moldova, complained about high costs for treatments and medications, feeling that their healthcare contributions were wasted. In other regions, including major cities in Ilfov and Transylvania, the lack of essential equipment creates absurd situations, such as large hospitals lacking even basic instruments like thermometers or glucose testing devices.

Corruption and the lack of competent medical personnel are perceived as severe issues, with devastating effects on public confidence in the healthcare system. Many Romanians prefer private clinics to avoid situations where they feel compelled to pay bribes in state hospitals, despite already paying full healthcare contributions.

Regarding the number of doctors, the perception is as follows:

The lack of competent doctors is a major, nationwide complaint, with participants in several focus groups stating that „the good ones have left” [abroad], and that positions outside of major cities remain unfilled due to a lack of applicants. In areas like Ilfov, this issue also extends to the private sector

The study highlights that the future president will need to decisively address these issues to regain citizens’ trust and halt the feeling that „Romania is an abandoned state.”

Romanians’ mood ahead of upcoming elections: between „concern” and „despair”

According to the study’s findings, the mood in Romania is grim, ranging from concern in large cities, depression in small and medium-sized towns, to outright despair in rural areas. Frustration over poor-quality public services is extremely high, representing one of the main drivers of overall dissatisfaction.

Recent parliamentary elections did not lend legitimacy to the political class, which continues to be viewed with hostility. The upcoming presidential elections are seen as an opportunity for sanction or change.

The perception that „Romania is an abandoned state” has significantly intensified over the past year, and the primary expectation from the future president is the modernization of public administration.

References:

• Barbu Mateescu, 2025, Frustrations and dissatisfactions of Romanians before the presidential elections.

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