A bill aimed at integrating Ukraine into the European Union’s cross-border healthcare system has been registered in the Verkhovna Rada. Bill No. 15542 defines procedures for obtaining medical care abroad, the documents patients will need and the conditions for reimbursement.
The legislation is intended to bring Ukrainian law into line with EU rules governing cross-border healthcare and the coordination of social security systems in relation to medical services.
Mykhailo Radutskyi, chair of the Ukrainian Parliament’s Health Committee, said the rules would be reciprocal: Ukrainians would be able to receive medical care in EU countries, while EU citizens would have access to treatment in Ukraine.
Before undergoing treatment, patients would have to know what services they are entitled to receive, which documents are required, how to select a healthcare provider and what expenses may be reimbursed by the state.
The bill would not automatically give every Ukrainian or EU patient access to treatment outside their country of residence. Established procedures and financial mechanisms would apply.
The initiative also covers the recognition of foreign prescriptions, the exchange of medical information and the continuation of treatment after patients return home.
Ukrainian legislation currently regulates these issues only in part. There is no unified mechanism covering the entire process, from selecting a healthcare facility to receiving reimbursement.
The Cabinet of Ministers registered Bill No. 15542 on August 21. It is now being considered by the relevant parliamentary committee.
