Ministry of Health Proposes Inclusion of Cancer Screening Costs in Insurance Coverage
A newly prepared draft decree aims for the fund to cover the screening costs of seven types of cancer and hepatitis B and C.
The Ministry of Health has prepared a new draft decree envisioning that the Health Insurance Fund covers the screening and early diagnosis costs for seven different types of cancer as well as hepatitis B and C, and has submitted it for public consultation.
Scope of the Draft Decree
The new draft decree prepared by the Ministry of Health foresees significant changes in the current operation of the Health Insurance Fund.
Instead of making payments after the patient's treatment is completed, the system aims to focus on disease prevention and early diagnosis stages.
Types of Diseases Covered
Common types such as cervical cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, and prostate cancer are included within the scope of the proposed new regulation.
Additionally, colon cancer, stomach cancer, liver cancer, and hepatitis B and C have been included in the group of diseases to be diagnosed early.
Expenses to be Covered by the Fund
Under the Health Insurance Fund, it is envisioned to cover examination fees, laboratory tests, and paraclinical technical services.
In addition, all related expenses regarding medications, medical equipment, blood products, consumables, and chemicals will be included in the fund.
Phased Roadmap and Dates
It was stated that the implementation will not be immediately free for everyone, but will be carried out gradually based on target groups depending on the financial capacity of the fund.
According to the planned schedule, child nutrition treatments will begin on July 1, 2027, and chronic disease management and pilot applications will start in 2028.