Ukrainian hospitals ban donations: What the draft law provides.

The Verkhovna Rada plans to consider proposals to ban donations in hospitals in order to ensure the free provision of all medical services under the Medical Guarantees Program (MGH). This was reported by the chairman of the Health Committee, Mychailo Raduckij, after a meeting with government representatives.

Ban on Donations in Hospitals

Raduckij emphasized that collecting donations in medical institutions contradicts the principles of the MGH, which stipulates free services that must be provided by the state.

“In most hospitals, patients are still asked to make donations. I believe there is a clear list of paid services approved by the Ministry of Health. All other services should be provided free of charge under the MGH,” he emphasized.

The committee is ready to support the initiatives of the Ministry of Health to address this issue and increase transparency in the healthcare sector.

Proposals at the Meeting of Parliament and Government

During the meeting, further proposals were expressed, including:

• Refunding funds for services not rendered under the MGH in the medical sector and not to the general budget.
• Introduction of KPIs for general practitioners with rewards for preventive measures.
• Transition to project financing of medical research according to the European model.
• Appropriate funding for programs to combat HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and cancer screening.

Healthcare Budget for 2026

The draft state budget for 2026 allocates 258 billion UAH for the healthcare sector, which is 38.2 billion more than in 2025. This is the largest growth in the last 7 years. The funds will be used for:

• Increasing salaries for primary care and emergency medicine doctors to 35,000 UAH;
• Expanding the “Affordable Medicines” program;
• Procurement of medicines;
• Rehabilitation;
• Psychological support.

In addition, 9.9 billion UAH is to be allocated for public investment projects, the details of which will be discussed at the next committee meeting. Medical examinations for persons over 40 are also planned, along with the expansion of early diagnosis programs.

We remind that Raduckij previously mentioned that medical certificates for drivers will be converted into a digital format.

These initiatives are expected to significantly improve the healthcare system in Ukraine. The ban on donations could be a step towards implementing the principle of free medical services and restoring patients' trust in medical institutions. The planned budget changes are expected to increase the quality of medical services and ensure their accessibility for all citizens.