Uzbekistan to increase share of private sector in healthcare sector to 50%

The Ministry of Health in Uzbekistan has unveiled an ambitious draft national strategy titled "Public Health – 2030," aiming to revamp the healthcare system in the country comprehensively. The proposed reforms encompass the restructuring of financing for all medical institutions, the optimization of pharmaceutical and medical equipment supply chains, and the implementation of advanced management principles.

One key aspect of the strategy involves the annual determination of the precise volume of guaranteed medical services for each level. The financing model for clinics will adopt an insurance approach, conducted on a patient basis for hospitals and for each assigned Uzbek citizen for clinics.

Furthermore, the strategy outlines plans to broaden the scope of paid medical services and progressively enhance the financial autonomy of medical institutions. A noteworthy goal is to elevate the contribution of the healthcare sector to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 5%.

The strategy envisions the implementation of up to two hundred projects through public-private partnerships. Across all regions, multidisciplinary hospital groups, each with a minimum of a thousand beds, are slated for establishment.

Gulistan will host an innovative medicine center, incorporating a cell medicine center and a genomics center. Additionally, the Fergana region is earmarked for a $160 mn investment in a cluster featuring specialized centers for endocrinology, urology, cardiology, and radiotherapy.

To support non-state medical institutions, the strategy introduces mechanisms such as purchasing services from the private sector and transferring the management of public clinics to private entities. The overarching aim is to increase the private sector's share in healthcare to 50%.

The strategy also outlines specific targets for advancing the material and technical infrastructure of medical institutions. These initiatives collectively underscore Uzbekistan's commitment to fostering a modern, efficient, and inclusive healthcare system by 2030.