ASSESSMENT OF INVOLVEMENT OF SMALL AND MEDIUM PRIVATE PROVIDERS IN ALMATY MARKET OF MEDICAL SERVICES

Background. Involving small and medium businesses in the provision of medical services sets the task of rational use of existing resources in the healthcare system, and the development of a competitive environment in the market. The purpose of the study was to assess the existing distribution of small and medium entities by type of activity in health care, in dependence with stimulating factors and the involvement of small and medium businesses in public-private partnerships. Materials and Methods. The cross-sectional study was based on data from official sources on the number of small and medium-sized businesses, their share in the medical services market, and their participation in public-private partnerships. Results & Conclusion. The share of small and medium-sized businesses in Almaty ranges from 1.3 to 30%, depending on the type of medical services, while only 15% of the total number of private producers are involved in public-private partnerships, which indicates the need to develop development mechanisms cooperation.