The myth of affordable medications in Europe: What do Ukrainians say? (VIDEO)

It is often heard that medications in Europe are cheaper than in Ukraine. Such statements are sometimes even made by members of parliament. However, if we disregard mandatory insurance in EU countries and reimbursement programs, in reality, medications can be purchased significantly cheaper in Ukrainian pharmacies. Journalists from UNN conducted a survey to find out how Ukrainians perceive the price differences for medications between Ukraine and the EU.

The results indicate that many citizens are aware of the actual situation.

"I think the prices are about the same, maybe some are cheaper, some are more expensive."

"It seems to me that it's about the same."

"I believe the prices are similar, but the standard of living is different here and there."

"I know for sure that there are many more pharmacies in Ukraine, which means they compete more with each other, so some of them definitely offer lower prices."

"It's more expensive in the European Union. I live in Germany, and I came for a week. Medications are much more expensive there; without insurance, simple medications can easily reach 10 euros."

"The prices are the same."

"I don't think they are much more expensive, but in the EU, it's harder to get them because there are more bureaucratic processes involved with medications."

However, there were also those who believe that prices in Ukraine might be higher when considering the ratio to wages.

"According to our salaries, it's more expensive," noted one of the respondents.

"I think that prices in Ukraine are slightly higher than in the EU," shared another survey participant.

Reality and Myths

The price study conducted by journalists showed that some medications in Ukraine are indeed significantly cheaper than in EU countries. For instance, the well-known pain reliever and antipyretic "Nurofen" can be purchased in Ukraine for prices ranging from 189.10 to 345.51 hryvnias for an упаковку of 24 capsules. In Europe, it costs at least 7.39 euros, or 322.10 UAH for an упаковку of 20 capsules.

It is worth noting that in most European countries, strict regulations govern pricing, which take into account not only the interests of patients but also those of pharmaceutical companies. Consequently, this limits competition and options for consumers, whereas in Ukraine, the market remains more open and accessible to various manufacturers, allowing patients to seek the best price options. Therefore, it is important to analyze specific examples and remember that the cost of medications depends on many factors that should be considered when comparing prices.