The issue of delays in providing Kazakhstanis with free medicines was discussed in the Majilis. Deputy Askhat Rakhimzhanov reminded that at the beginning of each year, citizens from privileged categories face problems when receiving medications.
According to Inbusiness.kz, the Majilisman asked for clarification on what measures are planned to rectify the situation in the procurement system through SK-Pharmacia LLP. He also raised the issue of medicine provision for newly diagnosed patients.
"For example, with orphan diseases. It is clear that there are some specific objective reasons, but still. How are these patients provided with treatment during the transition period?" the deputy asked.
In turn, Minister of Health Akmaral Alnazarova acknowledged that the problem remains acute. According to her, disruptions are indeed recorded every year; however, during 2025, the ministry has taken steps to address the issue. One of the key changes was the creation of a non-reducible stock.
"Today, a non-reducible stock has been created, and therefore we are comprehensively solving the issue of supply interruptions, especially those we had at the beginning of the year. Second – regarding newly identified patients. This year, a corresponding methodology was approved, and we are essentially planning procurement with a volume increase of 10-12%. All procurement procedures are currently underway," she reported.
The minister also noted that funding for the procurement of medicines is increasing: for 2025, about 270 billion tenge is allocated, and for the next year — already 346 billion tenge.
"These issues, taken together, will give us the opportunity to provide newly identified patients with medications without interruption, including promptly. We have actually increased procurement efficiency several times, which resulted in savings of more than 36 billion tenge, and this is only part of it. By the end of the year, we expect it to be even greater," the minister said.
Let us recall that in July, law enforcement agencies launched a criminal investigation into embezzlement at SK-Pharmacia LLP and entities in the pharmaceutical industry. The case was initiated after an appeal by Majilis deputies Bakytzhan Bazarbek and Murat Abenov to the Prosecutor General's Office regarding violations identified by the Supreme Audit Chamber.
In early November, a number of officials from the Ministry of Health and its subordinate organisations were held to disciplinary account following a state audit conducted by the Supreme Audit Chamber.