The state reimbursement program “Affordable Medicines Program” (AMP) has been in effect since 2017 and has already helped more than 5 million patients to receive necessary medicines free of charge or with a minimal co-payment.
In 2025, the list of reimbursable items is expanding, and the percentage of completely free brand names has grown from 18% in 2018 to 38% today.
Below is a calm, easy-to-understand guide for everyday consumers.
What is the Affordable Drug Program?
- The essence – the state compensates pharmacies for the cost of selected drugs, and the patient pays 0 UAH or a small difference in price.
- Who it is useful for – people with chronic diseases (C-C-z, diabetes, bronchial asthma, etc.).
- Electronic prescription (e-Prescription) speeds up the process and reduces errors.
Scientific view
New in 2025
| Month | Category | Added INN | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| August | Drugs for pregnant women/babies | +2 | New prenatal forms |
| Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular agents | +2 | Expanding the line of statins | |
| October | Oncology | +3 | Outpatient therapy support |
| Ocular/ear drops and ointments | +7 | Including children’s ophthalmic products |
The program is flexible in responding to patient needs even in times of war.
How to use the program: step by step
- See a doctor – get an electronic prescription.
- Get an SMS code on your phone.
- Find a pharmacy with a sticker “Here are available medicines”.
- Show the code to the pharmacist – get the drug for free or with additional payment.
- Keep the receipt for your personal control.
Economic impact on the family
| Indicator | 2019 year | 2025 year | Alteration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy outlets in the program | 7 840 | 15 726 | +100 % |
| Average patient savings | 60 % | 85 % | +25 p.p.m. |
| Percentage of completely free TNs | 28 % | 38 % | +10 p.p.m. |
Pharmacist commentary: increased pharmacies have made the program available even in small communities. Pharmacy online
Questions and answers
Can I get a prescription remotely? Yes, a doctor can write an e-prescription online.
What can I do in a combat zone? Paper forms and delayed filing are allowed.
Do I have to pay taxes on the rebate? No, the rebate is not considered income.
Practical tips
- Combine your covered drugs with a healthy lifestyle.
- Check your INN list every six months to make sure it is up to date.
- Keep electronic receipts to help your doctor track adherence.
Conclusion
“Affordable Medicines” is a real way to reduce family expenditures on medications and improve chronic disease management.
When used wisely, the program improves adherence to treatment and quality of life, as confirmed by international studies on the positive impact of reimbursement systems on population health.
List of references
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Dobrova V. et al. The “Affordable Medicines” Reimbursement Program in Ukraine. Value in Health. 2023;26(3):359-369. PubMed
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Hladik S. AMP expands access despite war. MSH, 2024. Management Sciences for Health
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Wagenschieber E., Blunck D. Impact of reimbursement systems on patient care. Health Econ Rev. 2024;14:22. PMC
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Vlasenko I. et al. Availability of hypoglycaemic medicines during war. JHPOR. 2024;1:1-12. jhpor.com
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Пресс-служба НСЗУ. Розвиток програми «Доступні ліки», форум «Реімбурсація 2025». Аптека.ua. 15 травня 2025 р. Аптека online
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