On September 17, 2024, Deputy Minister of Health for European Integration Maryna Slobodnichenko presented the Roadmap of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine to prepare healthcare system for negotiation process with the EU at the State Service of Ukraine on Medicines and Drugs Control.
Representatives from the State Service of Ukraine on Medicines and Drugs Control and the Ministry of Health involved in European integration processes, participated in the interagency meeting.
Last year, by Decree of the President of Ukraine No. 365/2024 dated June 21, 2024, the Ukrainian delegation was established to participate in negotiations with the EU on the conclusion of the Agreement on Ukraine's accession to the European Union. An active negotiation process and bilateral screening of EU and Ukrainian legislation began in June 2024. In July, the first strategic session of negotiators on relevant issues was held.
The central executive authorities are currently preparing relevant documents, presentations, forming negotiating teams and determining negotiators.
Maryna Slobodnichenko noted that a bilateral screening meeting on the negotiation process on Chapter 28 «Consumer and Health Protection» of the EU acquis, which includes the adaptation of national legislation in the sphere of medicine and pharmacy, is scheduled for February 2025. In this regard, the Ministry of Health and the State Service of Ukraine on Medicines and Drugs Control are conducting joint work to coordinate European integration processes, form an expert community with the involvement of the public, business representatives and government authorities, hold discussions and round tables to develop a unified negotiating position. Realistic timelines for transitional periods are being identified and agreed upon. If necessary, funding requirements for the implementation of EU acts are also being determined.
Head of the State Service of Ukraine on Medicines and Drugs Control Roman Isaienko emphasized the importance of continuing close interagency cooperation on European integration of the national healthcare system. The State Service of Ukraine on Medicines and Drugs Control is actively involved in the harmonization of Ukrainian sectoral legislation with the EU acquis communautaire, preparation and holding of meetings with representatives of European regulatory authorities. Therefore, the constructive cooperation with the Ministry of Health of Ukraine in preparation for the negotiation process with the EU will continue.