Kazakhstan overhauls healthcare with new laws and top honours

Kazakhstan has taken significant steps to strengthen its healthcare system. A series of new measures and honours were announced during a recent ceremonial event in Astana. These changes aim to improve medical training, safety, and recognition for professionals in the field. A ceremonial event took place at the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation in Astana to honour healthcare workers. Health Minister Akmaral Alnazarova congratulated medical professionals on Medical Workers’ Day. She highlighted the importance of their work, calling it valuable, demanding, and responsible.

The head of state signed several new laws to support the sector. One introduces mandatory professional liability insurance for medical workers for the first time. Another toughens criminal penalties for attacks against medical staff. A third law aims to bolster practical training for medical personnel.

Modern surveillance systems are also being installed in healthcare facilities to enhance safety. In recognition of outstanding contributions, Professor Tamara Kurmangaliyevna Chuvakova received the Order of Barys, Second Class, for her work in Kazakh neonatology.

Two medical universities were renamed to honour key figures. Karaganda Medical University was named after its founder, Pyotr Pospelov. Astana Medical University gained national status and was named after Toregeldy Sharmanov. The new laws and honours mark a period of reform and recognition for Kazakhstan’s healthcare sector. The measures address training, safety, and professional accountability. They also celebrate the achievements of individuals and institutions in the field.