In the Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz Republic, the third reading of the bill concerning changes to the legislation on medical insurance took place. Deputy Marlen Mamataliyev explained what changes citizens can expect and how the reforms will affect the system.
- What are the main changes in the medical insurance law that should benefit ordinary citizens?
- The changes that were approved on January 22, 2026, provide for clearer regulation of the package of medical services and increased control over the fund, which will ensure guaranteed access to medical care for citizens.
This innovation will allow citizens to better understand what services (medications, procedures, etc.) they can receive under the compulsory health insurance policy, reducing the risk of unexpected bills for services that are currently provided for free. Additionally, a decrease in co-payments and a reduction in informal payments to doctors are expected.
A more convenient procedure for registering, choosing, and changing the health insurance organization will also be provided, which will protect patients' rights. The right to insurance will remain with the citizen when changing jobs or moving to another region of the country, rather than depending on the place of registration.
- Is there a possibility of an increased financial burden on insured citizens?
- At the moment, it is difficult to make accurate predictions; however, a slight indirect increase in financial burden is possible.
- How do you respond to the criticism that reforms in health insurance only improve administration and not the quality of services? What changes in the bill are aimed at patients?
- The changes made not only affirm the right to medical assistance but also introduce a mandatory package of services enshrined in legislation.
According to the amendments, health insurance organizations are now responsible for protecting patients' rights, which implies improved quality control of medical services and processing of insured complaints. Patients receive not just a policy, but an organization that is obligated to advocate for their interests in medical institutions. Citizens' awareness is also increased, for example, through a "Personal Account," where the history of inquiries and a list of available services will be accessible.
- When do you think it will be possible to objectively assess the results of these changes?
- I assume that this will be possible no earlier than 2–3 years after the full implementation of the amendments. This is due to the need to develop subordinate legislation, re-sign contracts, train personnel, and improve software.
The data collection process will take up to two years, and a quality analysis will require at least a year of stable operation under the new rules. Effective evaluation will also require regular surveys on patient satisfaction, strict accounting of complaints, and analysis of the speed of their resolution. An important aspect will also be the assessment of the transparency of financial flows in the Compulsory Health Insurance Fund.
Interviewed by Sofia Berezovskaya
