Session Profile: Eero Merilind
15th Riigikogu, 4th sitting, plenary session
2024-10-23
Political Position
The political position firmly backs legislative amendments aimed at improving the efficiency of the healthcare system and the pharmaceutical supply chain. This stance is policy-driven, highlighting specific benefits such as improved access to medication, increased competition, and cost savings for hospitals. The goal is to ensure better and more consistent treatment for patients.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The presenter exhibits detailed expertise in pharmaceutical procurement, hospital pharmacy operations, and supply chain logistics. They address critical topics such as direct sourcing and supply chain shortages. Furthermore, they are well-versed in medical device regulation and the administrative load placed upon pharmacies. This expertise stems from close cooperation with relevant ministries, the Health Board, and various professional associations.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, objective, and logical, particularly in the second speech, where three clearly structured positive arguments are presented in support of the bill. The tone focuses on facts, efficiency, and procedures, remaining analytical rather than emotional. The first speech is purely procedural and report-based.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in leading and reporting on the work of the Social Affairs Committee, providing an overview of the committee session (October 15) and the timeline for procedural decisions. He/She is managing the legislative process, including the consideration of amendments and the scheduling of the final vote.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
No criticism is present; the focus is on addressing systemic issues (e.g., supply chain difficulties, administrative burden on pharmacies). Although it is mentioned that the inclusion of international suppliers forces local wholesalers to compete, no negative viewpoint is expressed toward them.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The cooperation approach is consensus-based and open, highlighting that all procedural decisions within the commission were reached by consensus. Extensive cooperation took place, involving ministries, the Health Board, Tehnopol, and various professional associations. The Commission fully considered the technical amendment proposal.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is at the national level, covering the Estonian healthcare system, the operations of hospital pharmacies, and the domestic availability of pharmaceuticals. The international aspect is limited solely to involving international suppliers to enhance competition.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives support increasing competition through the inclusion of international suppliers, which is expected to lead to a reduction in pharmaceutical prices. Emphasis is placed on the importance of cost savings and the effective utilization of health insurance funds within hospital budgets. The streamlining of regulation to reduce administrative burden is supported.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The societal focus is aimed at enhancing the quality of patient care and improving the availability of medications, particularly for the treatment of complex and rare diseases. The objective is to ensure that patients can begin their treatment without delay.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on streamlining the regulation of medical devices and amending the Medicines Act to improve the procurement of pharmaceuticals by hospital pharmacies. The speaker is a supporter of the draft bill and the commission representative responsible for the proceedings, who is currently handling the scheduling of the second and third readings.
3 Speeches Analyzed