New Feature for Electronic Prescriptions
A new feature has been added to Ukraine's Electronic Healthcare System (EHS), allowing patients to scan a QR code on their paper prescription slip. This code directs them to the National Price Catalog website, making it easier to compare medication costs and find the most affordable options. This initiative is part of ongoing digital reforms within Ukraine's healthcare sector to increase price transparency for consumers.
After scanning the QR code, the website automatically displays all medications matching the active ingredient, dosage, and form specified in the prescription. The system then highlights up to three of the most cost-effective options, showing the price per individual tablet or capsule.
Limitations and Key Details
Currently, this service is only available for single-ingredient prescription drugs in tablet or capsule form that patients pay for out-of-pocket. Importantly, these medications are not covered by the 'Affordable Medicines' state reimbursement program or local subsidy schemes. The National Price Catalog lists the maximum allowable price for a drug, meaning a pharmacy cannot legally charge above this ceiling.
Among the options presented, patients can see significant price differences per unit. For example, the listings might show:
- 15 tablets priced at 2.10 UAH per tablet
- 10 tablets priced at 3.14 UAH per tablet
- 10 tablets priced at 6.85 UAH per tablet
The goal of this innovation is to simplify the medication selection process and equip patients with the information needed to make cost-saving decisions.
The introduction of this feature reflects a broader effort to improve patient access to drug information and pricing, a significant step in modernizing Ukraine's healthcare system. It has the potential to enhance the economic accessibility of medicines and raise patient awareness. Future development of the service may include expanding its functionality to cover other drug categories and services, which would further improve the overall standard of medical care in the country.