The Government of Armenia on December 25 approved a package of decisions establishing the regulatory framework for launching the country’s universal health insurance system during a regular Cabinet session chaired by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

The key resolution sets out procedures for forming and amending the insurance package and approving lists of medical services and medicines subject to reimbursement, including co-payments. Health Minister Anahit Avanesyan said the law on universal health insurance has already been signed and published, while the adopted decisions provide the necessary sub-legislative basis for implementation.

According to Avanesyan, the resolutions define model contracts with medical centers and pharmacies, as well as reimbursement procedures for services provided under the system. The government also approved the establishment of the Health Insurance Fund, which is expected to be created within days. During a transition period, preparatory work will be carried out by the Ministry of Health and the State Health Agency until the fund fully assumes its functions within 2 months.

The minister said the lists of covered services and medicines have been published and that the ARMED application has been updated to allow citizens to check their insurance status. With the adoption of the package, the universal health insurance system is set to enter into force on January 1, 2026.

At the first stage, coverage will include children under 18, people aged 65 and over, individuals earning more than 200,000 drams, persons with disabilities, beneficiaries of the social security system, and families of deceased servicemen. These groups together account for approximately 1.6 million people.

Prime Minister Pashinyan said the reform has been discussed for years and that it is important to proceed with implementation despite expected challenges. He acknowledged that organizational, technical, and operational issues will arise but stressed that the system will evolve through practical experience. He called on citizens to show patience and avoid overwhelming healthcare institutions immediately after launch.

Pashinyan added that the Ministry of Health will operate in emergency mode after January 1, with special operational groups formed at both government and ministerial levels. He also highlighted the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles, noting that incentives and accessible infrastructure should make healthy living both desirable and beneficial.