Affordable Medicines Program Gets a Major Boost
Starting in July 2026, Ukraine's government will update its 'Affordable Medicines' initiative, adding 51 international non-proprietary names (INNs) to the list of drugs available for free or with a co-pay via electronic prescription. Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko announced the expansion, which comes with a 2026 budget of 8.7 billion hryvnias. This program has already served over 6 million Ukrainians since its launch, including nearly 2 million patients in early 2026 alone.
New Medications and Their Uses
The newly included drugs target several critical health areas:
- Blood pressure control;
- Heart failure treatment;
- Cardiac arrhythmia management;
- Thrombosis prevention;
- Cholesterol reduction;
- Therapy for post-heart attack patients or those at high risk of stroke.
To access these medications, patients must see a doctor, obtain an electronic prescription, and visit a pharmacy displaying the 'Here are Affordable Medicines' sticker. According to Svyrydenko, 'This will boost domestic pharmaceutical production while strengthening the stability of supplying patients with essential medicines.' Ukrainian manufacturers will receive priority in the program if their products meet requirements and offer the lowest price.
The expansion represents a significant step forward in improving healthcare access across Ukraine. With its substantial budget and focus on treating serious conditions, the initiative is expected to enhance public health outcomes. It also aims to stimulate the local pharmaceutical industry, supporting economic resilience and self-sufficiency.