Although countries in central and eastern Europe (CEE) have relatively younger populations
compared to the West, their populations are often affected by higher prevalence of
chronic conditions and multi-morbidity and this burden will likely increase as their
populations age. Relatively little is known about how these countries cater to the
needs of complex patients. This Perspective piece identifies key initiatives to improve
coordination of care in Czechia, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia, including some pioneering
and far-reaching approaches. Unfortunately, some of them have failed to be implemented,
but a recent strategic commitment to care coordination in some of these countries
and the dedication to rebuilding stronger health systems after the COVID-19 pandemic
offer an opportunity to take stock of these past and ongoing experiences and push
for more progress in this area.
