The Ministry of Health of Ukraine has expanded the list of specialists authorized to dispense medications via electronic prescriptions in the country's pharmacies. Corresponding changes to the Licensing Conditions were approved by Resolution No. 1135 of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine dated September 17, 2026, and have already been incorporated into the electronic healthcare system. Now, in addition to pharmacists, staff with a specialty in "Nursing" and pharmacy interns are permitted to dispense both prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
Who and Where Can Dispense Medications
According to the updated rules, pharmacy interns across Ukraine, as well as specialists with a "Nursing" degree in urban pharmacies, are now authorized to dispense both prescription and over-the-counter medications. However, in both cases, work must be conducted under the direct supervision of a pharmacist. Broader powers have been granted to nurses in rural areas and specific frontline communities: since February 2026, they may independently dispense medications via electronic prescriptions, provided that established legislative conditions are met. Thus, the scope of authority for this new contingent of specialists varies depending on the geographical location and the type of pharmacy.
How Patients Can Receive Medication via E-Prescription
The procedure for receiving medication via electronic prescription remains simple: the patient provides the pharmacy employee with the electronic prescription number and its redemption code. The specialist locates the prescription in the electronic healthcare system and dispenses the medication. The electronic prescription is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. During the martial law period, prescription drugs can still be prescribed using either electronic or paper prescriptions. Exceptions include narcotic medications, as well as drugs and medical devices subject to reimbursement — these must be prescribed and dispensed exclusively via electronic prescription.
Reasons for the Expansion
The Ministry of Health explains the innovation as a necessity to help pharmacies maintain standard operations amidst the staffing challenges the industry has faced during martial law. Expanding the circle of authorized specialists helps distribute the workload and reduces the risk of disruptions in ensuring patients have access to necessary medications, especially in rural and frontline regions where the shortage of pharmaceutical personnel is most acute.
Additional Services for Patients
Parallel to staffing changes, Ukrainian patients can now use a price comparison service for prescription drugs via a QR code found on the electronic prescription handout. While the service previously covered only tablets and capsules, it now allows users to find up to three of the cheapest options among all dosage forms containing the same active ingredient. Furthermore, Ukrainians continue to receive medications through the "Affordable Medicines" program for free or with a partial co-payment: to do so, one must consult a doctor, receive an electronic prescription, and present its number and redemption code at a pharmacy participating in the program.
