Private provision of health services in Ukraine: Current challenges, future directions

In most countries, health systems are mixed, with a range of public and private sector entities providing health-related goods and services. This report assesses the current policy framework regarding private health service providers (‎PHSPs)‎ in Ukraine, focusing on regulations, contracting mechanisms, information and intelligence, and stakeholder engagement, in relation to UHC goals. It finds that the regulatory apparatus is comprehensive but enforcement is limited. PHSPs need to be held accountable for the safety, appropriateness and effectiveness of the care they provide. Except for primary health care, take-up of contracts with the National Health Service of Ukraine under the Programme of Medical Guarantees (‎PMG)‎ has been limited by insufficient funding to cover PHSPs’ costs. New contractual modalities and adjusting payment structures may support the role of PHSPs in the health sector’s recovery and reconstruction efforts. Reforms should focus on integrating all PHSPs into national health information systems and establishing platforms for policy dialogue. Overall, with strong regulations and contracts, fully inclusive health information systems, and open, transparent, and purposeful dialogue, the PHSP sector can continue to grow without detriment to the Government’s key health policy goals.