Armenian parliament passes universal health insurance law

The Armenian National Assembly has passed the law on universal health insurance, which will take effect on 1 January 2026.

Under the first phase, coverage will include children under 18, seniors over 65, people with disabilities (groups 1–3), individuals with functional limitations, socially vulnerable groups, families of fallen soldiers and those earning 200,001 dram or more. The annual insurance premium will be 129,600 drams, with the government fully covering the cost for vulnerable groups, the Ministry of Health reported on Wednesday.

For citizens earning between 200,001 and 500,000 drams, most of the premium will be subsidized by the state. Those earning between 500,001 and 1,000,000 drams will receive partial reimbursement, with remaining contributions recoverable through income tax in 2027. Social package beneficiaries earning below 200,000 drams will continue to receive existing benefits.

The insurance package will cover a defined set of diseases, screenings and medications, accessible via the Armed app, the Ministry of Health, and the Insurance Fund websites. Services will begin at the primary healthcare level, except for urgent or emergency care.

The reform aims to improve population health, extend life expectancy, reduce disability and premature mortality and enhance quality of life. Within three years, all Armenian citizens and residents are expected to be covered, though not all medical services will be included in the package.