Ukraine expands grounds for disability: what has changed
25 February 16:06
Ukraine has expanded the list of reasons for establishing disability. This was reported by "Komersant Ukrainian" with reference to the Ministry of Health of Ukraine.
From now on, this status can be granted to people who have survived illegal detention, torture, or suffered other injuries as a result of being in captivity. According to the Law of Ukraine “On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of Ukraine on Reforming Medical and Social Expertise and Implementation of Assessment of a Person’s Daily Functioning” and the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 1338 of 15.11.2024, this ground for establishing disability applies to both civilians and military personnel.
How to get an assessment for disability
Step 1. Confirmation of the fact of deprivation of personal liberty.
It is necessary to apply to the Commission for Establishing the Fact of Deprivation of Personal Liberty under the Ministry of Community and Territorial Development of Ukraine. In case of a positive decision, the person’s data is entered into the Unified Register of Persons in respect of whom the fact of deprivation of personal liberty as a result of armed aggression against Ukraine has been established, and a relevant document is issued.
Step 2. Assessment of daily functioning
The personal physician or the chairman of the military medical commission, in accordance with the defined Criteria, generates an electronic referral for evaluation. During the review, the expert team assesses the person’s health status and limitations on vital activity.
Step 3. Receiving a decision
Based on the results of the assessment, the person receives an extract from the decision of the expert team. If a disability is established, this decision will also include recommendations that are part of the individual rehabilitation program (IRP). They will reflect the person’s need for rehabilitation aids, medical devices, and the need for services in other areas of their life. These recommendations are valid for the entire period for which the disability is established.
Once a disability has been established, citizens are entitled to rehabilitation equipment, pensions or social assistance, as well as free sanatorium and resort treatment if necessary.
Changes in the legislation on disability determination
The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine passed a law expanding the list of military personnel who can be recognized as persons with disabilities as a result of war. This now includes servicemen and women who have been wounded, contused, injured or ill as a result of missile, artillery or air strikes on military units and educational institutions since February 24, 2022. In the event of the death of such servicemen, their families receive the status of families of fallen defenders of Ukraine and appropriate financial assistance.
