Uzbekistan’s President Initiates Bold Healthcare Reforms for Quality and Access
Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: Uzbekistan’s President, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, took a significant step on January 22 by reviewing proposals aimed at accelerating comprehensive reforms in the healthcare sector.
Aligned with the goals outlined in the Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy, these reforms are designed to safeguard public health and elevate the standards of medical care in the country. To expedite these changes, proposals were meticulously crafted with the collaboration of international experts.
A key proposal involves the establishment of a dedicated governmental entity called the “Healthcare Projects Center” within the Ministry of Health. This center is tasked with overseeing the full implementation of the state health insurance system, ensuring access to a set of free medical services and medicines guaranteed by the state.
It will also play a pivotal role in fortifying the quality and safety of medical services, enhancing personnel capabilities, and shaping a robust medical education and science system adhering to international standards. Additionally, the center will drive the integration of digital technologies, hasten public-private partnership initiatives, foster private sector growth, increase transparency in government procurement, and spearhead reforms in the pharmaceutical industry.
The expertise of seasoned professionals from specialized medical centers, higher education institutions, research organizations, and international consultants will be enlisted on a contractual basis to contribute to the endeavors of the newly established project office.
Recognizing the pivotal role of skilled professionals, the healthcare reforms encompass measures to bolster human resources. Plans include the international accreditation of educational programs at the Tashkent Medical Academy, introducing master’s programs in public health, preventive medicine, and physical activity. The assessment of medical students’ knowledge through state examinations at two stages will align with internationally recognized standards.
Starting the next academic year, 200 graduates from medical universities will undergo training in master’s and clinical residency programs at leading foreign educational institutions, tailored to meet the needs of specific regions.
Accreditation is also set for specialized centers in surgery, cardiology, endocrinology, dermatovenereology, cosmetology, the Children’s National Medical Center, and the National Medical Center. Concurrently, this year will witness the revision of 40 existing sanitary rules and regulations to align them with international standards.
President Mirziyoyev enthusiastically endorsed these proposals and directed the formulation of an action plan for the expeditious implementation of these healthcare priorities. This initiative signifies a transformative stride towards ensuring quality healthcare accessibility for the citizens of Uzbekistan.
