Co-payment mechanisms introduced into healthcare system of Armenia

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 1, ARMENPRESS: Co-payment mechanisms of compensation of medical services will be introduced into the healthcare system of Armenia beginning from today.

An official from the Armenian Healthcare Ministry told Armenpress the 2004 decision of the Armenian government and the amendments confirmed by the decision of the government in 2010 December 23 have become a basis for introduction of the co-payment mechanisms.

From 2011 July 1, the co-payment mechanism has been introduced in 3 medical establishments of Yerevan by a pilot program. After positive assessment of the results of the co-payment mechanisms, it has been decided to apply it in all medical establishments of Armenia.

The co-payment mechanism plays a big role in the funding of the healthcare system. The co-payment is the direct payment for the cost of the medical products or services, which is not included in the price. Co-payments are usually formed in the funding system of healthcare in case the prices of medical services and treatment are lower, than the real costs. In this case two types of co-payment - non-official and official, are possible.