Health insurance implementation in Armenia: issues and perspectives of the regulation

Abstract

The Paper discussed the healthcare system existing in the Republic of Armenia since its independence. As it was concluded that the State Health Agency has insufficient motivation to promote the efficacy of healthcare provision. It does not have the necessary resources to meet the current requirements for healthcare, to confront the intentions of medical institutions for market dominance. Also, SHA does not have tools such as concluding electoral and quality-based contracts to support abovementioned efforts. Moreover, it acts as a payer focusing more on the payment process for medical institutions rather than assuming a strategic role to address some of the healthcare problems. The demand for health services in Armenia is much higher than what the state can compensate for. If consider the other reform, the inclusion of the “Social Benefit Package” system in Armenia, it was discovered that among the benefits there are substantial issues that miss both in the system and its regulation. The package is dedicated not only to health but also to other services, like education, leisure, etc. Its nature is more preventive envisaged for examinations and analyses as mandatory once a year. The beneficiaries are those in the public sector working full time as permanent employees. Women of the sector do not benefit the package during pregnancy and childbirth, as well as being on leave for childcare up to 3 years. Also, it should be taken into consideration that the benefit amount is very little. The Paper illustrated international practice through an examination of legislation in the Netherlands, Canada, and Estonia.