HEALTHCARE PROVISION FOR INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS WITHIN THE SOCIAL PROTECTION SYSTEM: PROBLEMS AND AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

Abstract

The article examines healthcare provision for internally displaced persons as an important component of the social protection system under martial law. It is substantiated that forced displacement, prolonged exposure to hostilities, constant stress, loss of habitual living conditions, and delayed access to medical care increase the risks of deterioration in the physical and mental health of internally displaced persons. The main legal and organizational problems in this area are identified, including insufficient awareness of the procedures for obtaining medical services, the absence of medical records, inadequate provision of medicines, limited access to specialized treatment, insufficient funding of healthcare institutions, and the lack of an initial medical examination following displacement. It is emphasized that delayed recourse to medical care may result in complications, the progression of diseases into chronic forms, and a deterioration in quality of life. The main areas and mechanisms of healthcare provision for internally displaced persons are characterized, including access to free primary and emergency medical care regardless of place of residence or registration, the operation of mobile medical teams, medical support for persons with chronic and socially dangerous diseases, the right to freely choose a doctor, access to medicines under the Affordable Medicines Programme, rehabilitation, prosthetic care, psychological support, and health improvement programmes for children. Particular attention is paid to the needs of persons with disabilities, older persons, children, pregnant women, and patients requiring continuous treatment. The necessity of improving state policy in this area is substantiated through enhanced public information measures, adequate funding, expansion of the network of healthcare institutions and mobile medical services, as well as the development of remote healthcare services. It is concluded that the healthcare system for internally displaced persons should be flexible, comprehensive, accessible, and integrated into the unified healthcare system of Ukraine.