WAYS TO OPTIMIZE SANITARY AND EPIDEMIOLOGICAL REQUIREMENTS TO DEVELOP SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESSES IN THE PRIVATE HEALTHCARE SECTOR IN KAZAKHSTAN

Abstract

Introduction. The private healthcare sector in the Republic of Kazakhstan continues to develop actively; however, it faces several administrative and regulatory constraints, particularly concerning sanitary and epidemiological requirements. These constraints are especially significant for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Objective of the study. To develop evidence-based recommendations for optimizing sanitary requirements within the framework of national legislation and considering international best practices.
Materials and Methods. The study was based on a normative legal analysis of the current legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, a comparative review of international approaches to sanitary regulation, and included structural-functional and systemic analysis, synthesis, deduction, and elements of expert assessment.
Results and Discussion. The analysis of Sanitary Rules No. ҚР ДСМ-96/2020 and Joint Order No. ҚР ДСМ-152/117 revealed that the existing system of sanitary requirements is universal and not adapted to the specific needs of small medical businesses. Excessive and outdated regulatory provisions were identified, as well as the complexity of inspection procedures and the lack of a flexible oversight system. A comparative assessment of regulatory models in the European Union, the United States, and Japan showed that their sanitary regulations are risk-based and supported by digital solutions. Proposed optimization strategies include implementing a risk-based approach, digitalizing supervisory procedures, and developing simplified sanitary standards for low-risk facilities.
Conclusion. The study confirms the necessity for systemic reform of sanitary regulations in the Republic of Kazakhstan, emphasizing risk-based regulation, digital technologies, and support for entrepreneurship. These changes will help reduce the administrative burden, enhance the investment attractiveness of the private healthcare sector, and ensure sanitary and epidemiological safety.