Medical insurance for workers under civil contracts in Armenia will come into effect on January 1, 2027 – Minister
YEREVAN, January 30. /ARKA/. The law on medical insurance of workers in Armenia who are employed under civil contracts is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, according to Health Minister Anahit Avanesyan
"At present, the system is operational for those with employment contracts," Avanesyan remarked, noting a considerable surge in requests for voluntary enrollment. She indicated that this is a significant sign.
"We had originally intended for the voluntary insurance system to launch on January 1, 2028, but we will monitor the situation over the first six months and will discuss together whether it is feasible to include this group as early as January 1, 2027," the minister stated.
In the initial phase of the three-year reform (2026–2028), 1.7 million residents of Armenia are to be incorporated into the system.
In 2026, two categories have been included in the system. The first category consists of citizens earning between 200,000 and 500,000 drams, while the second category encompasses minors under 18, individuals aged 18–65 with disabilities (groups I, II, and III), citizens aged 65 and older, and socially vulnerable families with a score of 28 or higher.
For the second category, the state will cover 100% of the costs. In the second phase, starting in 2027, the system will extend to individuals earning up to 200,000 drams, and by 2028, additional groups, including those working in agriculture and their families, will be included.
The estimated cost of the health insurance package is 129,600 drams per year, with the option to pay monthly. The insurance package covers the most in-demand medical services, including outpatient care, family doctor visits, specialist consultations, and laboratory tests (in a set amount per year). The list of services will be gradually expanded and refined, including certain surgical procedures, particularly ophthalmological (cataracts), cardiovascular, and other procedures.
The 2026 state budget of Armenia allocates 127 billion drams for the implementation of the compulsory health insurance system. ($1 = 378.64 drams).-0-
