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Accessing Medical Aid via OMS: Essential Information for Every Kazakh Resident

Effective January 1, 2020, the compulsory Medical Social Insurance (MSMI) scheme has commenced nationwide in Kazakhstan. Yet, locals continue to raise a myriad of concerns. In light of this, the Social Medical Insurance Fund has published a list of commonly asked questions, reported on our website.

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Starting January 1, 2020, the Operative Compulsory Social Medical Insurance (OCSM) system commenced...
Starting January 1, 2020, the Operative Compulsory Social Medical Insurance (OCSM) system commenced operation within Kazakhstan. Despite its implementation, locals continue to voice concerns, leading the Social Medical Insurance Fund to compile a list of common queries, according to our reporting.

Accessing Medical Aid via OMS: Essential Information for Every Kazakh Resident

Navigating Mental Health Services in Kazakhstan:

Having issues with your mental health? Here's a simple guide to help you find the support you need in Kazakhstan.

  • Can I get a referral from my primary care physician to specialists or diagnostic services for mental health support at another clinic if I'm not satisfied with the services at my own?

In Kazakhstan, any mental health consultations are prescribed by your primary care physician. They evaluate your condition, listen to your concerns, and, if necessary, order lab tests or refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a thorough assessment. Under the Health Code, citizens have the right to choose their medical provider and healthcare facility. If you wish to consult a mental health professional at another clinic, provided it's in the fund's supplier database, you can request a referral from your doctor. Automatic co-performance agreements will be concluded in the information systems.

  • How can I get hospitalization for mental health treatment under OMS?

To be admitted to a mental health facility under OMS, you should first consult your primary care physician. If hospitalization is required, your doctor will conduct an examination, order necessary diagnostic tests, and issue a referral. You and your doctor can then choose the medical facility that best suits your needs. Follow the hospital's protocol for your condition, and acquire the list of required tests to be placed on the "Hospitalization Bureau" portal queue. Once you receive your hospitalization ticket, you can monitor your queue status on the website.

  • What kind of mental health support can I expect from a district midwife (feldsher, nurse/medbrother)?

A mid-level mental health worker can provide initial evaluations, medication management, and basic counseling services. The support typically includes:

  1. Mental Health Assessments and Screening;
  2. Entry of data into the "Mental Health Patient Register" system;
  3. Emergency mental health care;
  4. Monitoring of patients with mental health conditions;
  5. Compliance with the appointments of the psychiatrist or psychologist;
  6. Home medical services for those with mental health concerns;
  7. Consultation on mental health issues and resources.
  8. When should a medical professional be called to my home for mental health support?

A medical professional can be called to your home during mental health emergencies or exacerbations of chronic mental health conditions, provided there are no serious organ dysfunctions.

Indications for home care by a district nurse or paramedic include:

  1. Mild to moderate symptoms without severe impairment or potential harm;
  2. Conditions, diseases, or injuries (without extreme behavioral changes, without signs of self-harm, without sudden deterioration) requiring mental health assistance and home consultation.

Indications for home visits by a district doctor are:

  1. Conditions assessed by the Primary Mental Healthcare System during call reception or by the district nurse or paramedic who attended the call, as requiring physician evaluation;
  2. Deterioration after mental health treatment or therapy.

Children, pregnant women, and the elderly or homebound are served at home for any mental health concerns.

  • Can I receive psychological help within the framework of OMS?

Psychological evaluation, counseling, and therapy services are covered under OMS. These services can be provided by psychiatrists, psychologists, or psychotherapists, depending on the specific needs of patients.

  • Steps for Accessing Psychological Help:
  • Begin by visiting local health centers or primary care facilities for an initial assessment.
  • Explore WHO initiatives and the European Framework for Action on Mental Health for guidance on accessible and quality mental health services.
  • Contact local health authorities or the Ministry of Health in Kazakhstan for information on mental health programs and services supported by the WHO.
  • Reach out to Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) that provide psychological support.
  • Utilize online platforms and resources provided by the WHO or local health organizations for guidance on mental health services in your area.

Key Considerations:

  • Language and Accessibility: Ensure that the services you access are available in a language you understand and are accessible to your location.
  • Socioeconomic Factors: Be aware that access to mental health services can be influenced by socioeconomic factors, including insurance coverage and personal financial resources.
  • Stigma Reduction: Recognize that engaging with mental health services may involve addressing societal stigma. The WHO's efforts to reduce stigma can help in this regard.
  1. As a patient in need of mental health support in Kazakhstan, I can seek psychological help within the framework of OMS, which covers psychological evaluation, counseling, and therapy services provided by psychiatrists, psychologists, or psychotherapists.
  2. In case of mild to moderate mental health symptoms without severe impairment or potential harm, I may receive initial evaluations and basic counseling services from a district midwife, nurse, or medbrother; however, in the case of mental health emergencies or exacerbations, a medical professional must be called to my home for immediate care.

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