Implementing the President's directive: Advancing hospital construction, enhancing medical professionals' availability, and integrating digital technology
In line with the Head of State's instructions, Kazakhstan's healthcare system is undergoing a significant modernization and digitalization, focusing on the adoption of modern digital technologies, expansion of telemedicine, and integration of advanced diagnostic and treatment methods.
One of the key advancements is the establishment of a Unified Medical Data Repository, aimed at streamlining healthcare services and improving patient care. Six linear accelerators have been installed in regional oncology centers, increasing coverage of radiation therapy to 41%. This development is a significant stride towards enhancing cancer care services in the country.
The focus on digital solutions is evident in the pilot test for the implementation of a unified medical care payment system, the creation of a unified digital infrastructure for the healthcare industry, and the transition of eight types of certificates to electronic format.
Telemedicine services are being expanded to provide remote access to healthcare, a crucial step towards addressing healthcare disparities in rural areas. Mobile medical complexes have been used by 1.3 million rural residents, and 200 villages without medical facilities now have doctor's offices, FAPs, and medical posts, offering day hospitals, physiotherapy, lab services, and sample collection.
In the realm of cancer care, while specific nationwide programs directly linked to the Head of State's instructions were not detailed, Kazakhstan is making strides through scientific and technological approaches to improve diagnostics and treatment modalities. The country is aligning with modernization trends seen internationally, such as Montenegro's introduction of state-of-the-art equipment and innovative therapies for cancer treatment.
Notable advancements in cancer care include the completion of the new wing at the National Scientific Oncology Center, equipped with unique facilities for cancer diagnosis and treatment, capable of serving 6,000 patients annually. Furthermore, a new clinic will be the only center in Kazakhstan and Central Asia with a cyclotron for proton therapy, a cutting-edge technology in cancer treatment.
Screening for chronic non-infectious diseases has been conducted for 3.4 million Kazakhs, resulting in the detection of 2,700 cases. The proportion of stage I cancer for cervical cancer was 72%, and for breast cancer, it was 56%. Through the "Social Wallet" service, 1.7 million electronic prescriptions have been issued.
The mortality rate from malignant neoplasms decreased by 3.5%, and from infectious and parasitic diseases decreased by 8.9%. Comprehensive measures are being implemented to ensure the comprehensive development of healthcare, including the training of future healthcare professionals.
While challenges like unequal access in some regions and staffing shortages remain, the focus is on deeper integration of innovation and training future medical professionals. International collaboration and investment in research are crucial to meeting global healthcare standards, as emphasized by a Kazakh scientist recognised by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
Under the national project "Modernization of Rural Healthcare," large-scale construction of 460 medical facilities out of 655 has been completed, with 195 more to be commissioned this year. These efforts demonstrate Kazakhstan's commitment to providing quality healthcare to all its citizens, regardless of location.
[1] Source: [Name of the source, if any] [2] Source: [Name of the source, if any]
- Kazakhstan's healthcare modernization and digitalization have resulted in the installation of six linear accelerators in regional oncology centers, improving cancer care services and covering 41% of the country with radiation therapy.
- The healthcare industry in Kazakhstan is transitioning to a unified digital infrastructure, evidenced by the implementation of a unified medical care payment system, the creation of a Unified Medical Data Repository, and the transition of eight types of certificates to electronic format.
- Telemedicine services are expanding to provide remote access to healthcare, especially beneficial for rural areas where 200 villages without medical facilities now have doctor's offices, FAPs, and medical posts.
- The country is making strides in cancer care through scientific and technological advances, such as the completion of a new wing at the National Scientific Oncology Center and the construction of a clinic with a cyclotron for proton therapy.
- In line with global healthcare trends, Kazakhstan is focusing on international collaboration and investment in research to train future medical professionals and meet global standards, as emphasized by a Kazakh scientist recognized by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. [1] ModernOncology [2] Kazakhstan Ministry of Health and Social Development
