Public Funding of Health Resort Treatment in Russia: Problems and Prospects

Abstract

In the context of the geopolitical crisis currently observed in Russia, the effective functioning of the sanatorium and resort sector is of particular relevance and importance for the implementation of the national security strategy. An important mechanism that ensures the efficiency of the activity of sanatorium and resort enterprises is the proper state financing of the industry. The results of the study demonstrate the generally unfavorable situation that has developed with the provision of sanatorium- and-spa treatment for citizens in Russia. The study identified the reduction in the number of citizens receiving sanatorium-and-spa treatment at the expense of state funding, as well as vouchers allocated by the state. The decrease in these indicators occurs against the backdrop of a growing use of sanatoriums privileged categories of citizens. Low levels of financing of the sanatorium and resort sector from the state, which do not cover the costs of sanatoriums and resorts, lead to a reduction in the number of responses from health resorts to government tenders and orders. The lack of proper mechanisms to support and develop the national sanatorium and resort sector can lead to a critical situation of its almost complete refusal to participate in the state rehabilitation and treatment programs. The main measures to develop the industry is to increase funding and the implementation of state support programs.