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The ministry's specialists indicate that this is confirmed by progress toward the goals of the Society Health Guidelines for 2011-2017.

For example, by 2009 the number of healthy life years has increased by two years, exceeding 54.7 years in 2012 for men and 57.8 years for women.

Meanwhile, the number of years of potential life lost has reduced by 14%.

Premature mortality caused by heart and cardiovascular diseases, as well as by cancer, has slightly reduced. The number of infant deaths has reduced also.

The ministry's report indicates that health indicators differ among various age, sex, residence, and other groups. Men are still showing a much higher mortality rate than women, as they tend to live a much unhealthier and riskier lifestyle than women.

The report also indicates that the most important problem in healthcare is insufficient funding. Between 2011 and 2013, the funding has reduced to 3.2% of GDP, which is the second lowest indicator for the past eight years, and one of the lowest among the EU member states.

Also, lack of money is said to be the main reason why Latvian residents do not turn to doctors and health institutions when they should.