Heart surgery has become more expensive for the state: the National Health Service of Ukraine has increased its rates
13 March 13:40
Funding for heart valve surgery has increased significantly in Ukraine. In 2026, the state increased payments to hospitals for such procedures by 2.5–3 times, depending on the complexity of the operation.
This was reported by the National Health Service of Ukraine, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
Why the payment system was changed
The National Health Service of Ukraine explains that previously, operations were paid for at a single average rate, regardless of complexity.
In 2026, a differentiated approach was introduced, whereby the amount of payment depends on:
- the complexity of the operation;
- the extent of the intervention;
- accompanying examinations.
This approach should more accurately reflect the actual costs incurred by hospitals for treating patients.
How tariffs have changed
According to the National Health Service of Ukraine, in 2025, the state paid UAH 96,129 for heart valve surgery using a heart-lung machine and invasive examination.
In 2026, the tariff is:
- UAH 245,401 — highly complex surgery;
- UAH 197,350 — less complex surgery.
Surgeries without invasive examination are paid as follows:
- 246,135 UAH — high complexity;
- 173,320 UAH — moderate complexity;
- 136,231 UAH — low complexity.
Separate rates for pediatric surgeries
In cardiac surgery, a pediatric coefficient has also been introduced, which takes into account the complexity of operations in children.
For example:
- 302,745 UAH — highly complex surgery on heart valves in children;
- 143,043 UAH — lower complexity intervention.
Surgeries remain free of charge for patients
The National Health Service of Ukraine emphasizes that patients should not pay for such operations.
The state covers them as part of the inpatient surgery package within the Medical Guarantees Program.
The package includes:
- consultations with doctors;
- laboratory tests;
- examinations (ECG, ultrasound, CT or MRI);
- anesthesia and surgery;
- intensive care;
- postoperative treatment and hospital stay.
Expensive medical devices are also covered by the state
According to the National Health Service of Ukraine, medical devices for such operations are purchased centrally by the state.
These include, in particular:
- artificial heart valves;
- stents;
- pacemakers;
- oxygenators.
They are purchased with budget funds through the Ministry of Health of Ukraine and transferred to hospitals.
Where are such operations performed?
Cardiac surgery operations within the Medical Guarantees Program are performed by 79 medical institutions that have a corresponding agreement with the National Health Service of Ukraine.
You can receive assistance:
- by referral from a doctor;
- through emergency medical care;
- upon transfer from another hospital;
- or in case of urgent self-referral.
Where to complain if money is demanded
The NSZU reminds: if a hospital demands payment for services that are included in the state guarantee program, patients can contact the NSZU contact center or file a complaint through the official website of the service.
