Uzbekistan shifting to electronic prescriptions to improve healthcare efficiency and accountability

Acting Minister of Health Asilbek Khudayarov announced the transition to electronic prescription systems. He stated this on July 4 during an open dialogue with representatives from the pharmaceutical and medical sectors.

According to him, the president has instructed to switch to electronic prescriptions to ensure safe medication for the population. An experiment was conducted in Tashkent, which will be complemented by the introduction of state medical insurance.

"We have already tested the medical insurance system and plan to implement it in Tashkent this year," the minister shared.

After the launch of medical insurance, patients will be able to purchase medications listed in the electronic prescription not only at the state pharmacy "Dori-Darmon" but also at private facilities. Data will be sent to the Health Projects Center, based on which reimbursement payments for pharmaceuticals will be made.

The minister emphasized that the transition to electronic prescription systems will create a competitive environment. This step will also prevent cases where unnecessary medications are recommended to citizens.

"A lot of unjustified medications are prescribed to the population, completely unnecessary. Due to polypragmasy, citizens are recommended medications based on commercial interests," Khudayarov said.

The electronic prescription system will include a list of medications recommended for specific ailments. If excessive medications are prescribed, both the doctor and pharmacist will be held accountable.

The electronic prescription also displays seized contraband pharmaceuticals, as legal medications undergo registration.

"This will be challenging for many, but we will not back down from it," concluded the official.

In January, a new institution, the Health Projects Center, was established within the Ministry of Health. The project office is tasked with engaging the private sector for PPP and reforming the pharmaceutical sector.

In 2024, the implementation of mechanisms for state medical insurance in Tashkent will begin. The system is planned to be financed from general taxes, without imposing additional fees.