From Now On, Those Earning 200,000 Dram or More Will Have to Pay for State Services: 'Jrap' Newspaper

The 'Jrap' newspaper reports that the universal health insurance program is underway, but it has sparked numerous questions and criticisms. Yesterday, Health Minister Anahit Avanesyan reported on the program's progress to the head of the executive.
The newspaper recalls that for years, the sector was managed by Deputy Minister Lena Nanushyan, yet the implementation of the insurance system has failed. As a result, a program that is set to operate from 2026 has been created.

According to Avanesyan, the first phase of mandatory insurance will cover about 536,000 citizens aged 65 and older, as well as approximately 755,000 residents under 18. However, the article notes that these groups have already been benefiting from state service provisions and are merely seeing the name change to universal insurance.

Anush Poghosyan, president of the NGO 'Right to Health,' pointed out that the new system adversely affects employees earning over 200,000 Dram, who will be required to pay 129,000 Dram annually for their insurance. He stated that this amount will contribute to the health budget, which replaces the state service system, yet citizens will not receive new services. The article emphasizes that in effect, a new type of tax is being introduced for these working citizens.