Health Care Law at Mongolia
Universal Health Coverage ... Mongolia's healthcare system is governed by a comprehensive legal framework that aims to provide accessible, equitable, and quality healthcare services to all citizens. The Ministry of Health oversees the public healthcare sector, ensuring that services are aligned with national health policies and international standards. (Health in Mongolia)
Legal Framework
Health Insurance Law (2015): This law mandates compulsory health insurance for all Mongolian citizens, establishing the principles and scope of coverage. It aims to create a fund to share financial risks arising from health issues and regulates the relationship between health insurance organizations, healthcare providers, and citizens. The law is supported by various other legislations, including the Constitution of Mongolia and laws on health, insurance, and social welfare.
Law on Medicines and Medical Devices (Revised in 2024): This law regulates the production, import, export, storage, sale, and distribution of medicines and medical devices. It includes provisions for price regulation, quality control, and transparency. Notably, it separates the regulation of human and veterinary drugs, aiming to improve drug quality and reduce prices through international standards and price negotiations.
Citizen's Health Insurance Law: Citizens are legally required to register and have annual check-ups under this law. The Health Insurance Fund, established in 1994, finances the system. Patients are required to make copayments of 10% for secondary care and 15% for tertiary care. (Health in Mongolia)
Healthcare for Foreign Citizens
Foreign citizens residing in Mongolia are also subject to health insurance requirements. Those employed under labor contracts are mandated to pay social health insurance contributions, typically 4% of their monthly salary. Foreign nationals without specific employment can opt for voluntary health insurance. Enrollees are entitled to a range of services, including inpatient and outpatient care, diagnostics, traditional treatments, and essential drug discounts. (HEALTH INSURANCE FOR FOREIGN CITIZENS THAT LIVING IN MONGOLIA)
Challenges and Reforms
Despite these legal frameworks, Mongolia faces challenges in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The vast geography and nomadic lifestyles contribute to delayed diagnoses and limited access to services. For instance, Mongolia has the highest global cancer death rate, with many residents unaware of screening services. (Mongolia's ambitious programme to tackle cancer death rates reaches 40% of population)
To address these issues, the government has endorsed the State Policy on Health 2017–2026, aiming to mainstream universal health coverage and ensure that no one is left behind. This policy guides all subsequent health-related decisions and reforms. (The State Policy on Health mainstreaming universal health care is endorsed by the Government)
Regulatory Oversight of Private Healthcare
Mongolia's healthcare system includes a mix of public and private providers. While there is extensive legal documentation regulating private healthcare, studies indicate that the current regulatory architecture may not optimally improve the affordability and quality of private care. Gaps in policy design and implementation have been identified, highlighting the need for enhanced oversight to ensure equitable healthcare delivery. (Regulating the for-profit private healthcare providers towards universal health coverage: A qualitative study of legal and organizational framework in Mongolia)
Conclusion
Mongolia's healthcare laws reflect a commitment to providing comprehensive health coverage to its citizens and residents. Ongoing reforms and policy initiatives aim to address existing challenges and improve the quality and accessibility of healthcare services across the country.
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