Medicines and health insurance: Tokayev gave instructions to Healthcare Minister

Tengrinews.kz – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev received Minister of Healthcare Akmaral Alnazarova, according to Akorda.
The Head of State was briefed on the current state of the healthcare system and key tasks for the upcoming period.
According to Akmaral Alnazarova, by the end of 2024, life expectancy reached 75.4 years for the first time, exceeding the global average.
In the first half of this year, overall mortality decreased by 3 percent. Maternal and infant mortality rates hit a historic low in 2024 and continue to decline.
Tokayev was also informed about efforts to improve the efficiency of primary healthcare, the implementation of the “Accessible Polyclinic” concept, and the expansion of screening services.
In terms of pharmaceutical policy, measures are being taken to improve both the economic and physical accessibility of medicines, as well as to strengthen control over the circulation of pharmaceuticals.
According to the ministry, beginning in 2026, 1 million socially vulnerable people will be granted access to health insurance.
Compared to the previous year, the shortage of doctors decreased by 19 percent, mid-level healthcare workers by 7 percent, and rural doctors by 16 percent.

“The President was briefed on measures to protect healthcare workers, including stricter legislation and ensuring rapid assistance in case of attacks,” the report stated.

It is noted that, following the meeting, the Head of State instructed to complete the construction of rural primary care facilities within the framework of the national project “Modernization of Rural Healthcare” by the end of the year, to improve the efficiency of the mandatory health insurance system, to take measures for the development of domestic production of critically important medicines, and to continue work on strengthening citizens’ health and enhancing the quality and accessibility of medical care.