Azerbaijan.US
In Azerbaijan, certain categories of citizens are eligible to receive free prescription medicines funded by the state. While the system is in place, many people remain unaware of who qualifies and how the process works.
Who is eligible
State-funded medicines are primarily provided to patients with chronic or socially significant diseases, as well as to individuals covered by specific government health programs. These include, among others:
diabetes (including insulin treatment),
oncology,
neurological disorders,
chronic kidney failure,
HIV,
multiple sclerosis,
people with disabilities.
Only medicines included in the official state-approved list are provided free of charge. Not all prescribed drugs automatically qualify.
How to receive free medicines
The procedure follows a fixed process:
The patient visits a public clinic or hospital operating under TABIB.
A specialist evaluates the patient and, if eligible, issues a preferential (benefit-based) prescription.
The patient presents this prescription at an authorized pharmacy.
The medicine is dispensed free of charge, provided it is on the approved list and available.
Why many people miss out
Patients often say the main issue is lack of clear information. Public awareness about which diseases and medicines are covered remains limited, leading many to assume free medicines apply only to a narrow group of conditions.
At the same time, some beneficiaries report receiving high-cost medicines on a regular basis, demonstrating that the system can function effectively when procedures are followed.
What to do if problems arise
Authorities note that if patients encounter:
refusal to dispense medicines covered by the program,
requests for payment for listed drugs,
or other suspicious practices,
they are encouraged to report such cases to relevant oversight bodies.
Experts emphasize that access to free medicines is a legal entitlement, not a discretionary benefit – but one that requires navigating a clearly defined process.
