Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Zhukov conducted a phone conference with a number of regional leaders on the implementation of the priority Health National Project in the first half of 2008

Mr Zhukov said that "most of the planned targets have been achieved. He noted positive demographic changes, particularly an increase in the birth rate, progress in rendering high-tech medical aid, and higher salaries for medical workers.

At the same time, Mr Zhukov noted that some regions are lagging behind in building high-tech medical centres, organizing annual medical check-ups, and taking preventive measures, such as vaccinations.

Mr Zhukov said that work is underway on the concept of reforming the national healthcare system.  He believes that in this context it is very important to monitor implementation of pilot projects in the regions because this experience will be used in the concept. He mentioned the positive experience in Chuvashia, where the funding of healthcare comes from one source based on compulsory medical insurance and the new remuneration system.