A new era of major reforms is beginning in Uzbekistan's healthcare system. A new government decree establishes a procedure for providing free medical services in both public and private hospitals, funded by the State Health Insurance Fund. Citizens can now receive state-funded treatment not only in public institutions but also in private clinics under certain conditions.
Stages of treatment: When and where?
The system will be implemented gradually, in stages. According to it, the levels of medical care will be introduced on the following dates:
District and city level: Currently available to all segments of the population.
Regional (provincial) level: For privileged categories of persons From July 1, 2026 will be launched.
Republican level: Most complex and high-tech procedures From January 1, 2027 will be free for privileged categories.
Who is eligible for free medical care?
According to the new regulation, the main categories eligible for state-funded high-tech medical services have been defined:
Minors and students in education;
Pregnant women and mothers with children under 2 years old;
Pensioners and low-income families included in the 'Unified Social Protection Register';
Citizens officially registered as unemployed;
Important update: Starting from 2027, labor veterans and workers who have paid taxes (PIT or social tax) for at least 6 months in the last year will also be added to this list.
How to get a referral to a hospital?
Old-fashioned 'paperwork' for free treatment is being abolished. Patients must first contact their assigned polyclinic or family doctor's office.
The main requirement is that referrals are only generated via an electronic information system This system serves to ensure transparency and prevent corruption. If the service required by the patient is included in the State Health Insurance package, they will be referred to a specialized hospital in the prescribed manner.
This new system is of great importance in meeting the population's need for quality medical services and providing financial support to low-income families.
Do you think the involvement of private clinics in the state insurance system will improve the quality of medical services?
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