Kazakhstan uncovers mass overcharging for free medical services in Karaganda

Authorities in Karaganda have uncovered widespread overcharging for medical services. More than 700 cases of double payments have been identified in the region. Many women were incorrectly billed for abortion procedures that should have been free under Kazakhstan’s compulsory social health insurance system. An investigation revealed 775 instances of overcharging over three years. The total amount involved reaches 22 million tenge. These cases came to light after patients reported being charged for services already covered by the OSMS.

The Karaganda prosecutor’s office stepped in to address the issue. As a result, 218 women received refunds totalling 7 million tenge. The process of reimbursing affected patients is still continuing. The findings highlight systemic billing errors in local healthcare. Refunds are being processed to return the wrongly collected funds. The prosecutor’s office continues to monitor the situation to prevent further overcharging.