"The experience of the CIS countries which have accomplished the healthcare reform shows that doctors' wages grew 2-3 times already in the first few years of the reform," First Deputy Minister Mikhail Dmitriyev said.
In his words, the Russian healthcare system now suffers from acute financial shortages, which account for tens of billions of rubles. "Our task is to eliminate this deficit and encourage the system participants to defend the patient's interests. Thereby, we will form a competitive environment on this market," said Mr. Dmitriyev.
As a result of the reform, "the patient will be in the focus of the system." The holders of medical insurance will be able to choose better quality treatment, and therefore competitive medical institutions will be able to improve their financial situation and increase wages of their staff members, the first deputy minister believes.
He also said that pilot projects had already been launched in 26 out of 89 districts, where the Pension Fund co-finances medical service of non-working pensioners. According to Mr. Dmitriyev, wages of the medical personnel have increased 2-3-fold there.
