Transparency of the disability determination procedure in Ukraine
From January 1, 2026, the procedure for determining disability in Ukraine will become transparent due to the introduction of mandatory audio recording of expert meetings. This reform aims to increase the level of trust in the disability determination process and reduce corruption risks at the document submission stage.
Each meeting of expert teams engaged in determining disability will be recorded on audio. This will ensure transparency and openness in the process, as well as provide individuals receiving a disability with access to the recordings. The recordings of the meetings will be stored in an electronic system for three years. The center in Dnipro will remain the only appeal body for decisions related to disability determination.
New system of criteria and patient rights
The reform is based on the International Classification of Functioning (ICF), which should promote a more objective and fair determination of eligibility. Olena Voronkova, an expert on disability issues, noted that
“the system still 'digests' old cases”emphasizing the need for changes in existing procedures. She also highlighted that
“the criteria for determining eligibility are becoming increasingly strict”, which may affect the quality of assessment.
An important part of the innovations is that individuals have the right to independently record the process on video, providing an additional level of control and transparency. The introduction of audio recording and new criteria in the disability determination procedure are essential steps towards ensuring patients' rights and improving the social protection system in Ukraine.
This reform can be a significant step towards improving the social protection system in Ukraine as it will ensure greater transparency and accountability in the disability determination process. The implementation of new criteria and control mechanisms will reduce opportunities for abuse and increase trust in governmental institutions dealing with disability issues. However, the important question remains of adapting existing procedures to the new requirements to ensure the overall effectiveness of the reform.