Access to health services becomes more restricted: Karine Hakobyan

Healthcare in Armenia is becoming less and less accessible to the population because the legislation on health services is being elaborated by individuals who pursue interests in the sector, Zharangutyun (Heritage) Party member Karine Hakobyan told a news conference on Thursday.

“A committee chairman should not be a doctor,” said she, adding that it is unacceptable that the legislation of healthcare be elaborated by someone who holds a private hospital.

The pro-opposition MP also expressed concerns over the four draft laws on healthcare, currently being discussed in parliament.

“In all the four laws, we see the phrase ‘or privileged conditions’ next to the word “free,” which means free healthcare is gradually becoming more restricted.”

“Being a doctor is not an advantage; it’s a disadvantage,” Head of National Assembly’s Committee on Healthcare Mkrtich Minasyan said, arguing with the speaker. At that, he introduced the state subsidies for maternity and child healthcare.

“Those benefiting from free healthcare will not suffer losses. The state takes care of the underprivileged,” Minasyan said, promising to propose an initiative on amending the legislation.