Priorities in effective management of primary health care institutions in Lithuania: Perspectives of managers of public and private primary health care institutions.

Qualitative research showed that the priorities of management of primary health care institutions were work management of an organization; human resources management; patient management; and health policy decision making. The participants of focus groups pointed out that effective work of primary health care institutions is ensured by the model of management, doctor-patient communication, quality and timely delivery of health care services, and financial resources. The major decisions involving the management of patients were as follows: meeting patients' expectations, quality and timely satisfaction of patients' needs, effective solution of patients' problems, patient-centered services, patient satisfaction, and communication with the patient. Accessibility to services, quality, geographical accessibility, disease prevention, strengthening of patients' health and adequate funding were mentioned as the priorities of health policy.