Zagreb - The parliamentary Health and Social Policy Committee on Tuesday supported Irena Hrstić as the new minister of health by a majority vote.
During the session, Hrstić responded to questions from MPs. While the ruling majority praised her as an experienced and competent professional ready to work for the improvement of healthcare, the opposition pointed out various issues, including the diversion of funds from public to private healthcare, and long waiting lists.
Hrstić announced plans to focus on restoring dignity to the healthcare system, improving the availability of healthcare services, ensuring transparency, and enhancing the efficiency of public procurement to ensure that hospital equipment is utilised effectively.
She dismissed claims that the healthcare system was in a state of devastation, emphasising that public healthcare workers are performing well.
In response to opposition allegations that appointments within the healthcare system are based on HDZ party membership, Hrstić said this is not the case and argued that such accusations undermine her expertise and career. She added that she has no regrets about being a member of HDZ.