Health Care Reform in Central and Eastern Europe

There is a sharp divide in life expectancy between Western Europe and the former socialist countries of central and eastern Europe. These differences are especially apparent in Hungary. In 1989, Hungary achieved a peaceful transition to a democratic government. Development of a family medicine speciality training system is seen as an urgent health priority in the health reform process. Despite initial efforts, there continue to be many substantial obstacles to primary care reform in this transition era in Hungary.