This announcement was made by Olha Stefanyshyna, a Member of Parliament and a member of the Committee on the Nation’s Health, Medical Care, and Health Insurance, during a recent briefing.
First Cannabis-Based Medicines Under Registration
Stefanyshyna indicated that the first registration of a medicine based on medical cannabis is currently underway. If the process continues smoothly, doctors will likely be able to prescribe such medications as early as the beginning of 2025.
“As far as I know, the first registration of a medicine is in progress. We very much hope this will happen on schedule. The process seems to be going well, and we’re closely monitoring it to prevent any corruption risks. We really hope that in January, it will already be possible to actually prescribe medicines based on medical cannabis,” explained Stefanyshyna.
Conditions for Prescriptions and Usage
The Ministry of Health of Ukraine has already approved a list of conditions for which medical cannabis-based medicines can be prescribed, as well as guidelines for their use. These medications will be available exclusively through electronic prescriptions either from a primary care physician or a specialist.
All data related to the prescription will be recorded in the electronic health care system (EHS), ensuring transparency and proper tracking of medication distribution.
Complementary Health Measures
In a related development, the Cabinet of Ministers has taken additional steps to improve healthcare affordability and accessibility:
- Expanded “Affordable Medicines” Program: The government added 30 new active substances to the existing list of drugs covered under the program.
- Electronic Payments and Wider Access: The purchase of medicines has been made possible using e-Support funds, and the range of pharmacies participating in the program has increased.
- Focus on Pediatric Care: The list of medicines available for children has also been expanded, ensuring that younger patients benefit from more comprehensive treatment options.
Conclusion
The introduction of cannabis-based medical treatments in Ukraine represents a significant step in modernizing the country’s healthcare offerings. With careful oversight and the implementation of electronic prescription systems, these medicines are expected to provide new options for patients with conditions that may respond well to cannabis-derived therapies. The ongoing reforms also signal a broader commitment by Ukrainian authorities to improve access to safe, effective, and affordable medicines across the board.
