Free Ophthalmological Care for Cataract Patients
Ukrainian citizens diagnosed with cataracts are eligible for a full suite of free eye care services, including surgical implantation of an artificial lens. This treatment is funded by the National Health Service of Ukraine (NHSU) under the state Medical Guarantees Program. The service is available at 112 healthcare institutions approved by the Ministry of Health, located across all 23 regions of Ukraine and the city of Kyiv. This initiative is a key part of efforts to improve access to essential surgical care for the population.
The Artificial Lens Implantation Procedure
The procedure is a surgical intervention where the eye's natural lens, clouded by a cataract, is removed and replaced with a specialized artificial implant. For the patient, the entire process is free of charge, as the NHSU reimburses all costs to the medical facility. In 2025 alone, 25,118 patients utilized this service, and since the start of this year, over 6,800 individuals have already received the necessary help. From 2021 through 2026, a total of 48,982 people have received free cataract treatment with an artificial lens implant.
The comprehensive service package includes:
- consultation with an ophthalmologist;
- pre-operative diagnostics;
- cataract removal surgery;
- implantation of the artificial lens (including the cost of the implant itself);
- post-operative observation and care.
The set reimbursement rate for this package under the Medical Guarantees Program is 28,441.16 Ukrainian hryvnias. If a healthcare institution demands payment for a service that should be free, patients can report it by contacting the NHSU hotline at 16-77 or the Ministry of Health at 0 800 505 201. Cataracts are a leading cause of vision impairment globally, making such publicly funded programs vital for patient welfare.
Providing free cataract treatment in Ukraine represents a significant advancement in improving medical access, particularly for the elderly who are most frequently affected by this condition. Support from the NHSU helps alleviate the financial burden on patients and enhances the quality of life for those who receive help. Given the substantial number of patients who have already benefited from the program, a continued increase in demand for these ophthalmological services is anticipated across the country.
In addition to the cataract treatment options available, the National Health Service of Ukraine is set to expand its healthcare offerings with upcoming services, including free heart stent procedures starting in 2026. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to enhance medical care for citizens, ensuring that essential surgical interventions remain accessible and affordable.