Improving Healthcare System Financing in theModernWorld
Abstract
Amid growing global challenges and post-pandemic consequences, improving healthcare financing mechanisms has become a key factor in ensuring the stability and effectiveness of national health systems. Using data from international organizations, the study assesses the dynamics of current health expenditures as a share of gross domestic product, with a focus on Central Asian countries and the ongoing reforms in Uzbekistan. The analysis shows that the coronavirus pandemic caused a temporary increase in expenditures, followed by gradual stabilization, while significant differences between countries in the region persist. The study identifies several priority reform areas: increasing public funding, strengthening financial protection for the population, and transitioning to a strategic approach to purchasing medical services. The examination of reforms in Uzbekistan demonstrates progress in the development of primary health care, digital transformation, and the phased introduction of a state health insurance system. The findings highlight the need to expand public financial resources, reduce out-of-pocket spending by households, and strengthen contractual mechanisms to enhance the sustainability and efficiency of healthcare systems.Keywords: healthcare financing, primary health care, public health expenditures, financial protection of the population, health insurance, healthcare reforms.