Latvia's lifesaving heart attack unit struggles with staff shortages ahead of winter

Daugavpils Regional Hospital has treated acute heart attack patients around the clock since 2020. The service became possible after its Cardiac and Large Vessel Catheterisation Laboratory opened. But now, the hospital faces growing challenges as winter approaches and staff shortages persist.

The hospital's 24-hour Invasive Cardiology Unit ensures immediate care for heart attack patients. Doctors can assess and open blocked coronary arteries without delay. Every minute counts in these cases, and treatment is both critical and costly.

Autumn and winter bring a rise in acute illnesses, including heart problems. Deniss Vasiļjevs, an invasive cardiologist and the hospital's director of education and science, links this to respiratory infections and unvaccinated flu patients. These conditions can strain the heart, increasing risks for vulnerable individuals. Despite the demand, the hospital struggles with a shortage of specialists. Only three interventional cardiologists cover night shifts, though five are needed. Across departments, over 20 doctor positions remain unfilled. The municipality has offered scholarships and housing to attract specialists, but retention remains difficult. Heavy workloads and lengthy training deter many from staying. The hospital serves patients from Latgale and beyond, performing around 1,000 operations each year. Yet, finding and keeping skilled staff continues to threaten its ability to provide timely, life-saving care.

Daugavpils Regional Hospital remains a key treatment centre for heart attack patients in eastern Latvia. But staff shortages and seasonal spikes in illness put pressure on its services. Without more specialists, maintaining 24-hour emergency cardiac care could become even harder.