KUWAIT CITY, November 3. /Dunyo IA/. International daily newspaper “Azzaman” has published an article on the expansion of Uzbekistan’s healthcare system and the provision of medicines free of charge from 2027, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

According to the publication, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced an expansion of the package of guaranteed medical services: from 2027, citizens would receive 73 types of medicines free of charge, while 36 types of medical tests and diagnostic services would also be provided at no cost. The package currently covers 60 types of medicines. The announcement was made during the President’s meeting with healthcare and pharmaceutical industry workers, at which plans for the wider implementation of practices tested in several regions were discussed.

Newspaper reported that the new system was planned to be introduced in a further 15 districts in 2027, while 200 billion soums would be allocated from that year for the nationwide implementation of the programme. Early detection of diseases, particularly cancer and cardiovascular conditions, was identified as a priority. The measures were expected to reduce premature deaths from these diseases by 15 percent. Programmes for the early detection of cancer, including among women and children, were also set to continue.

Publication also reported on the introduction of the principle of “From Treatment to Prevention” and the development of new quality standards for medical services. To reward healthcare professionals, regional competitions for “Best Doctor” and “Best Nurse” were to be held, with cash prizes of 100 million soums for each winner. The winners of the regional stage in 2027 were also set to receive electric cars.