TRENDS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF MEDICAL INSURANCE IN UKRAINE AND ITS ROLE IN THE SOCIAL PROTECTION SYSTEM OF THE POPULATION

Abstract

The article examines the current state and features of the development of medical insurance in Ukraine in the context of the transformation of the healthcare system, economic instability and the impact of military challenges. The economic and social essence of medical insurance as an important tool for financial support of the medical industry and increasing the level of social protection of the population is revealed. Regulatory and legal changes are analyzed, in particular, the impact of the new version of the Law of Ukraine «On Insurance» dated November 18, 2021, and the specifics of the functioning of voluntary medical insurance in modern conditions are determined. A comprehensive analysis of key indicators of the development of the medical insurance market in Ukraine for 2020-2024 is carried out, in particular, the dynamics of concluded contracts, insurance premiums and insurance payments. It was established that as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and full-scale war, there was a significant reduction in several indicators, however, financial indicators demonstrate a gradual recovery. Particular attention is paid to assessing the level of insurance payments, which in 2024 reaches an optimal value, which contributes to increasing the efficiency of the system. Based on the analysis and consideration of modern military challenges, the main problems of the development of medical insurance in Ukraine have been identified, including: the provision of a full-fledged system of universal medical insurance, imperfect regulatory framework, low level of public trust, limited availability of medical services, and insufficient number of employers in employee insurance. The need to form a mixed model of medical insurance, which harms state and private financing mechanisms, has been substantiated. Directions for improving medical insurance systems have been proposed, which include the introduction of mandatory insurance, increasing transparency of insurers, developing competition, stimulating the participation of the population and business, and using international experience. The implementation of the proposed measures will contribute to increasing the availability and quality of medical services and ensuring the financial sustainability of the Ukrainian healthcare system.