After wide public discussion with health social security stakeholders, experts, medical professionals, pharmaceutical associations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) the draft law on basic public health protection passed its first reading in the State Duma (Lower Chamber of the Russian Parliament). The law is expected to be finally adopted in autumn and be implemented as from January 2012.

Reportedly, this law follows changes in economic and health social protection conditions in Russia after 1993 when the first basic legislation on public health protection was introduced. Since then the national healthcare system has seen a wide spread development of private medical programmes and introduction of advanced medical technology.

The law is aimed at improving accessibility of quality medical services for citizens, regardless of their place of residence or work.

In particular, this law regulates relationships among patients, medical organizations and the State. The law defines procedures related to the choice of a doctor and a medical establishment and the rights of a patient. It also defines the rights and responsibilities of doctors.

The law describes the financing of national healthcare, in terms of its revenue, target expenditure, and sources. To combat a widespread practice of unjustified out-of-pocket payments, the law defines basic free services and conditions when these services should be provided. For instance, to enhance this objective, the law includes a provision on the priority of free-of-charge services.

It is expected that the law will contribute to further modernization of the national healthcare services and greater affordability.

Source: http://eng.kremlin.ru/news/2673; http://www.medoo.ru/news/news_468.html

Implementation date: 01.2012