The healthcare system in Ukraine

Ukrainian healthcare is run by the Ministry of Health, with all working citizens contributing to the cost. In theory, healthcare is available free of charge to all citizens of Ukraine, however, in practice, the free services only cover basic provision and patients often have to pay for extras such as specialist equipment required during surgery. Often, doctors and consultants will also charge a fee for their time.

Ukrainian public healthcare is still in transition from the Soviet dictated health system of the past. Under this system, capacity was everything, resulting in high numbers of physicians and beds, among the best in Europe, but sadly not the overall standards to match. This is reflected in the relatively low life expectancy of just 68 overall, and a mere 62 for men.

Fortunately, as is often the case in Eastern Europe, the standards of private healthcare are vastly different. With wages for state employed doctors relatively low, and a growing demand for high quality healthcare tourism, many doctors, surgeons and dentists have been tempted over to the private sector, where they enjoy excellent facilities and training.

Private cosmetic surgery and dental care in Ukraine are on a par with the best in Europe, but cost around a fifth of the price. For example, a dental crown that costs around £350 in the UK will cost just £100 in Ukraine, while breast reduction surgery can cost as little as £900 compared to over £2700 in the UK.

Two particular specialties in Ukraine are IVF treatment – with a course of IVF starting from £1400 in Ukraine compared to around £3,500 in the UK – and laser eye surgery, with LASIK eyesight correction from just £575 compared to £3–4,000 in the UK.

Medical tourism is growing rapidly in Ukraine, especially in the capital Kiev, where you can discover a fascinating city full of sights to make a trip of your treatment. In the Black Sea resorts, you can combine treatments with rejuvenating mineral spas, mud baths and traditional sauna-like Russian baths. Combine this with the relaxing scenery of the Crimea and the fresh air of the coast and there are many advantages of traveling to Ukraine for private healthcare.

Treatment providers in Ukraine