The Ministry of Health has issued a clarification regarding universal health coverage for Georgian citizens who are abroad for more than six months.
According to the Ministry, media reports suggesting that citizens outside Georgia for over six months are ineligible for universal health coverage services are incorrect and appear intended to mislead the public.
The Ministry emphasized that the change only affects funding for outpatient facilities, and citizens’ access to health services under the program continues uninterrupted.
“For public information: all Georgian citizens who have been receiving medical services under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program will continue to do so without any changes. Access to medical services is not restricted, including for citizens residing abroad.
The adjustment concerns only the funding mechanism for outpatient facilities. Previously, the state paid fixed fees to clinics even if a citizen was not in the country and therefore did not receive services.
Importantly, the Health Minister’s order of December 31, 2025, affects only the capitation funding mechanism for outpatient services and does not apply to other components of the UHC program, including emergency outpatient and inpatient care.
Citizens returning to Georgia can immediately register at outpatient facilities and receive full program services without restrictions.
This decision aims to strengthen the universal health protection program, prevent unnecessary expenses, and protect the interests of beneficiaries.”
