Available Medicines programme launched in April 2017 that envisages provision of medications free of charge or with a small additional charge for diabetes, asthma and heart disease will be extended. This was stated by Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman during the Government sitting.

Volodymyr Groysman emphasized that earlier there have been attempts to implement the similar program,  but only a current Government program had laid a basis for a system that it is now working clearly and steadily.

According to the Ministry of Healthcare, over the two years the 33 million prescriptions totaling UAH 1.7 billion were issued under this program.  The list of medicines under this program has increased by 64% - up to 258 items. And the number of pharmacies engaged in the Available Medicines programme has reached 6000.

"For the first time we established a real system aimed at providing Ukrainians with free medicines," the Head of Government said.

PM announced a new stage of the program - introduction of an electronic recipe that would enable citizens to receive medicines regardless of the patient's place of residence. In addition, the National Health Service of Ukraine, that has proven itself as a reliable payer, will now be responsible for managing the program.

"We will continue  to expand the Available Medicines programme. The list of medications will be extended as well. Medicines will be handed over to patients irrespective of their place of residence", the Prime Minister underscored.