Uzbekistan plans to raise state healthcare spending to 5% of GDP within five years
Uzbekistan intends to lift state healthcare spending to 5% of GDP within five years
Uzbekistan plans to raise public healthcare expenditure to 5% of gross domestic product over the next five years as part of the country’s second national program centered on public health and longevity.
The plans were reviewed at a joint session of the Committee on Labor, Health and Social Issues of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and its Public Council. The discussion concentrated on priorities for carrying out the second national program aimed at improving public health and extending life expectancy.
The meeting examined recent developments in Uzbekistan’s healthcare system and steps designed to expand access to medical services, prevent disease and strengthen public health.
According to information presented at the session, healthcare funding has grown more than eightfold in recent years. Across Uzbekistan, 652 new medical facilities have been opened, and opportunities for private healthcare providers have been broadened as well. The amount of medical services in the country has tripled. More than 100 complex diagnostic and treatment procedures that once required patients to go abroad are now carried out in Uzbekistan.
These figures were mentioned in connection with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s address marking the 35th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence. The meeting also presented data on changes in life expectancy and maternal and infant mortality. Average life expectancy in Uzbekistan rose from 66.4 years in 1991 to 75.4 years in 2025. Over the same period, maternal and infant mortality rates fell fourfold, according to the information shared at the meeting.
Participants discussed the second national program on strengthening public health and ensuring longevity, which was highlighted as a priority in the president’s independence anniversary speech. One of the program’s goals is to increase state healthcare expenditure to 5% of GDP over the next five years. The program also aims to move the healthcare system toward a stronger focus on preventing diseases rather than mainly treating them after they appear.
Under this approach, authorities plan to encourage healthy lifestyles, including balanced nutrition, regular physical activity and participation in sports. Efforts will also target reducing harmful habits and promoting observance of hygiene standards. In the healthcare sector, the government plans to transition to a “health preservation” model focused on disease prevention and maintaining public health.
The program also includes education and employment priorities. Participants discussed improving the quality of education and helping young people gain modern knowledge and professional skills. During the meeting, the parliamentary committee defined its main tasks in implementing the second national program. These will include cooperation with relevant ministries and government organizations on measures related to preventive healthcare, healthy lifestyles and the implementation of reforms in the sector.
The institutions involved also outlined steps for further cooperation aimed at increasing public participation in healthy lifestyles and improving the implementation of healthcare policies included in the national program.