Ukraine is launching an important reform of the Medical and Social Expert Commission (MSEC) system, which, according to Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, will be abolished. It will be replaced by a new, more effective mechanism focused on the individual and their specific needs. The main goal of the reform is to create a more transparent and fair system for assessing work capacity and social benefits.
Read more: Will citizens still receive pensions after the MSEC reform – clarifications from the Ministry of Social Policy
Steps toward reform: a new draft law
“We’ve already taken the first step,” said Denys Shmyhal, referring to the government’s submission of a draft law to the Verkhovna Rada that outlines a new algorithm for assessing daily functioning. Under the new rules, doctors in multidisciplinary hospitals, working as part of expert teams, will assess a patient’s condition based on three main categories:
- Stable complete loss of work capacity,
- Stable partial loss of work capacity,
- Work-capable person.
This approach will allow for a more objective and personalized assessment of a patient’s condition.
Increase in social benefits
The Prime Minister reported that the government had also approved two draft laws regulating social services and insurance payments. According to the new rules, the amount of benefits for people with complete stable loss of work capacity will significantly increase compared to the current standards.
For individuals with partial stable loss of work capacity, the state will compensate for the salary difference between what the person earned before the insurance case and after returning to work. This will help people maintain a stable income even after an illness or injury.
Duration of treatment and rehabilitation
Under the new proposals, the duration of paid treatment and rehabilitation will be extended from the current 4 months to 1.5 years. This will allow individuals to undergo more effective rehabilitation after illnesses or injuries. Additionally, the reform ensures job protection throughout the treatment period, preventing dismissal during recovery.
Disability status and social services
The Prime Minister emphasized that disability status will remain and will continue to provide access to social services, rehabilitation, benefits, and support for employment. For those already classified as disabled, the situation will not change. Importantly, the reform is focused not only on compensation for work capacity loss but also on providing comprehensive support during rehabilitation and reintegration into active life.
Remote and digital assessment options
One of the key aspects of the reform is the introduction of remote, in-absentia, and on-site assessments. The new evaluation system will be digitized, which will significantly simplify the process and reduce bureaucratic barriers. The system will focus on results—maximizing the rehabilitation of individuals, helping them return to active life, and adapting the workplace to meet their needs.
Alignment with European standards
Denys Shmyhal noted that Ukraine aims to meet European standards in rehabilitation. In many European countries, nearly half of people who have experienced illnesses or injuries return to an active lifestyle after rehabilitation. Through this new rehabilitation system, Ukraine hopes to achieve similar outcomes, providing citizens with meaningful support on their journey to recovery and reintegration into society.
Conclusion
The reform of the Medical and Social Expert Commission (MSEC) system aims to create a more effective, human-centered approach to assessing work capacity and providing social benefits. The changes proposed in the draft laws are designed to offer real assistance to people who need rehabilitation after illness or injury, while also creating a more just system of social support.
