In Ukraine, patients with cataracts can receive a full range of medical care free of charge within the scope of the Medical Guarantee Program. This includes not only cataract surgery, but also the implantation of an artificial lens (intraocular lens). All costs are covered by the state, informs press service of the Ministry of Health.
The cost of the service starts from 28,441 hryvnias, depending on the medical coefficients, but patients do not need to pay for any stage of treatment, because the National Health Service of Ukraine compensates for the costs.
The medical guarantee program is a mechanism by which the state provides citizens with access to a guaranteed list of medical services and medicines. Funding goes directly to medical institutions that have a contract with the National Health Service. These services are available regardless of place of residence, social status or income, and are provided on terms of universality and extraterritoriality.
“Sight is a basic sensation, without which the quality of life is significantly reduced. Cataract is not just an age-related complication, but a real cause of vision loss. Surgery to remove it is an effective and affordable solution. That is why we did everything to ensure that Ukrainians could receive this help free of charge. Without additional costs – within the limits of the Medical Guarantee Program”, – says Minister of Health of Ukraine Viktor Lyashko.
The guaranteed package of services includes an ophthalmologist’s consultation, preoperative diagnosis, cataract surgery itself, lens implantation (together with the implant), and postoperative follow-up. To receive this help, the patient needs to contact his family doctor, who will help him choose a hospital with a contract with the NHSHU and issue an electronic referral to an ophthalmologist. Based on this referral, the patient will receive all necessary care.
The Ministry of Health emphasizes that this service is completely free of charge. In response to signals about possible extortion of funds in some hospitals, the Ministry of Health held a conference call with the heads of institutions that provide ophthalmic care within the framework of the Program.
