3 minute read
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan spoke about promoting a healthy lifestyle and implementing incentive mechanisms, as universal health insurance is set to launch on January 1.
Speaking at the Cabinet meeting, he urged citizens with coverage to avoid overcrowding clinics and hospitals from the first day the insurance policy takes effect, and instead focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
He emphasized that a healthy lifestyle and sports must be promoted throughout society.
Addressing the cessation of tobacco and alcohol use, Pashinyan warned against the misconception held by some that smoking or drinking are “pleasures of life,” and said that quitting both is the true “pleasure of life.”
Pashinyan further stated that a healthy lifestyle should also come with tangible benefits, including concrete bonuses and opportunities.
The Prime Minister noted that currently the government spends around 200 billion AMD on the health insurance system, and these expenditures could rise over time to 250–300 billion AMD.
“If we need to spend an additional 50 billion AMD to treat a person, perhaps it is worth directing part of these funds toward preventing the person from getting sick,” he said.
Pashinyan also emphasized the accessibility of healthy lifestyle infrastructure in the regions, noting that the implementation of sports center projects is aimed at ensuring equal opportunities in all settlements across the country.
The landmark health insurance bill was adopted by parliament earlier in December. The initiative provides for medical insurance for all citizens, to be introduced gradually over the course of three years. The mandatory national health insurance plan will initially cover medical costs for minors and several vulnerable groups, before being extended to the entire population. The package costs around USD 27 per person per month. Citizens can offset the contribution by redirecting social package taxes.