E-Prescription Now Lets Ukrainians Compare Prices on All Prescription Drugs

Ministry of Health Expands Price Transparency Initiative

According to Міністерство Здоров'я: The Ministry of Health of Ukraine has launched the second phase of a program that allows patients with an e-prescription to check the lowest prices on all single-ingredient prescription medications-excluding narcotics-through the National Price Catalog. Previously, this feature was only available for tablets and capsules, but it now covers all drug forms, including syrups, suspensions, drops, ointments, gels, creams, and injectable solutions.

How the New System Helps Patients

Under the updated system, patients receive a list of the three cheapest drugs that share the same active ingredient, dosage, and form. At least one of these three lowest-priced options must be in stock at the pharmacy. This service applies only to prescription drugs that patients pay for out of pocket; it does not cover medications included in the 'Affordable Medicines' program or those reimbursed through local initiatives.

Since the first phase launched in February of this year, doctors and patients have used the price-checking feature over one million times to view minimum prices in the National Catalog. This high level of engagement highlights strong demand for the service and its importance for patients looking to save on treatment costs.

To check drug prices, patients can use the e-prescription reference sheet. They need to obtain a printed sheet from their doctor, scan the QR code with a smartphone, and the system will display the best available deals.

By expanding this initiative, the Ministry of Health is giving patients more detailed pricing information, which could improve access to treatment. With medical costs rising, this system represents a key step toward reducing the financial burden on patients who must buy their own medications. Greater price transparency in this area may also encourage pharmacies to compete more effectively, ultimately benefiting the entire pharmaceutical market.

In addition to the new pricing transparency for prescription medications, the Ministry of Health is also expanding access to essential treatments through its updated heart medication program. This initiative now includes a broader range of drugs available at no cost to patients. For more details on the latest additions to this crucial program, explore the expanded list of free heart medications.