In this special episode of World Health Voices, Dr. Gevorg Tamamyan sits down with Dr. Hosams Abu Meri, the Minister of Health of Latvia — a physician, gastroenterologist, policymaker, and reform leader whose inspiring journey spans continents, professions, and public service. Dr. Abu Meri shares how growing up in a family of doctors shaped his path in medicine, why he chose gastroenterology, and how his early years in Lebanon influenced his eventual transition into Latvian politics. He reveals what it’s like to balance being a practicing physician while holding one of the highest public offices in the country, and why staying close to patients is essential for making good decisions as a minister.
This conversation covers some of the most important health topics in Latvia today:
- Workforce shortages in healthcare
- Digital transformation of the health system
- Major reforms in medication pricing
- Tobacco and alcohol policy changes
- Screening programs and improvements in cancer survival
- Strengthening EU-wide cooperation in oncology
- Challenges of mental health, lifestyle risk factors, and prevention
- The future vision for cancer care and public health in Latvia