NHSU Digital
One of the key areas of activity of the NHSU is the digitalization of the healthcare sector. The main functions of the NHSU in this area are:
- ensuring the operation of the Electronic Health System (EHS)
- ensuring the operation of the NHSU Information System (NHSU IS)
- conducting analytical activities
One of the important elements of the medical reform is the Electronic Health System. It allows the use of reliable and timely data in a field where decisions can affect people’s health. All patient medical information is stored in a single secure location and cannot be lost or fall into the hands of third parties, unlike paper records.
Analytics can be generated based on the data available in the system, enabling evidence-based decision-making. This is a valuable tool for healthcare administrators as well as for local government bodies that own medical facilities. On the basis of the data entered into the Electronic Health System, the National Health Service pays medical institutions for the services provided to patients.
Additionally, the Electronic Health System provides patients with a range of online services. These digital services have clear advantages over paper documents, primarily in terms of convenience for users.
The digital transformation of healthcare processes has primarily improved access to medical care for patients and helps them receive high-quality medical services.
Digital tools that make it easier for patients to access the medical care and medications they need:
Electronic Prescription
The electronic prescription was first introduced in April 2019 only for medicines reimbursed under the Medical Guarantees Program. Gradually, the scope of the e-prescription was expanded. Today, the e-prescription is used for prescribing:
- Medicines under the state reimbursement program;
- Antibacterial medicines paid for by the patient;
- Narcotic (psychotropic) medicines paid for by the patient;
- Other prescription medicines (as indicated in the instructions) paid for by the patient.
Electronic Referral.
Patients can independently choose a specialized medical facility where they wish to receive services under the Medical Guarantees Program, regardless of their place of residence or registration, or the district or city where the doctor issuing the referral works. During the war and forced displacement of people, this electronic tool has once again proven its effectiveness for the system and convenience for patients.
COVID Certificate.
A digital document confirming a person’s vaccination status. Anyone who has completed the full COVID-19 vaccination course can receive the certificate. The certificate is also available in the “Diia” app. It also shows booster and subsequent doses of COVID-19 vaccination.
Medical Certificate of Temporary Incapacity (Electronic Sick Leave)
Remains a convenient and modern tool that simplifies the confirmation of temporary incapacity for patients, doctors, and employers. Patients no longer need to worry about incorrect job titles or employer names being entered, which could invalidate the document. All data is transmitted automatically—there is no need to bring paper forms to the HR department. Information for calculating benefits is also sent directly to the Pension Fund of Ukraine, and sick leave payments, if extended, can be made in stages, allowing patients to receive money faster.
Medical Birth Certificate (e-Malyatko).
A convenient electronic tool for parents. It contains a list of information about the newborn and serves as confirmation of birth. Thanks to electronic tools, healthcare and state services related to health have become more accessible to Ukrainians. Despite large-scale blackouts and energy supply disruptions, these tools remain relevant and continue to improve access to medical services.
Digital Services and Digital Content — A Necessary Condition for Quality Service
The National Health Service of Ukraine (NHSU) creates and integrates various digital content and services that help citizens without leaving their homes:
- Update or request information about themselves entered by a doctor into the electronic health system.
- Change the phone number provided when signing a medical declaration.
- Quickly find information about guaranteed free medical care, the nearest hospital where they can receive the necessary medical service for free, or the nearest pharmacy with the “Affordable Medicines” program.
- Quickly submit a request for access to public information.
- Evaluate the quality of services provided at a healthcare facility.
- Submit a complaint about a violation of patient rights.