Monopoly on health: who makes money on bandages for orphaned patients?

The other day, a rally of orphan patients and their families took place in Kyiv. They demanded provision of special bandages for people with a rare disease — epidermolysis bullosa. At first glance, the situation seems simple: the state should provide patients with quality means of care. However, preliminary analysis UNN discovered that behind this problem there is a whole scheme that can be beneficial to a narrow circle of individuals and that works because of one person.

During the market analysis, it was found that the state buys bandages exclusively from one manufacturer – a Swedish company. Although there are other options on the market that cost much less, they are not purchased. Why so? Reason can be hidden in tender conditions that effectively exclude any competition. Specifications that perfectly correspond to the characteristics of the products of one specific brand are prescribed in the technical task.

This calls into question the transparency of tenders. In addition, the question arises: are the interests of patients taken into account, if the price per product unit is overestimated several times?

Studying the process of preparing tender documents, we found that one person plays a key role in this process. According to our data, she not only develops technical tasks, but also has a relationship with the public union “Orphan diseases of Ukraine”. This union represents the interests of patients, including those with bullous epidermolysis, but at the same time actively promotes the use of bandages of Swedish production. Other manufacturers are not even considered.

Conflict of interest or systemic corruption?

The relationship between the public union and the foreign manufacturer deserves special attention. According to our sources, the union receives funding from a company that represents the interests of this manufacturer in Ukraine. It turns out that an organization that is supposed to be an advocate for patients is actually working to promote a commercial structure.

This creates a closed circle: patients are told that there is no alternative, tenders are prescribed under one manufacturer, and patients are forced to depend on products whose price seems unreasonable.

The main question: why does the state allow the existence of such a monopoly? If there are alternatives on the market that are just as good, why aren’t they being considered? And do patients really get the best, or have they become hostage to the financial interests of a narrow circle of individuals?

Journalists UNN are continuing their investigation. We will appeal to the Ministry of Health and other specialized bodies with a request to explain why tenders are conducted in this way. We also plan to receive comments from independent medical experts and representatives of alternative providers.

We intend to take this case to the end to find out whose interests are behind public procurement and whether we can change the situation for the benefit of patients. Stay tuned as the truth must be heard.

For reference

Epidermolysis bullosa is a rare genetic disease that makes the skin extremely fragile. Even minor mechanical impact can cause the formation of blisters, open wounds and scars. This disorder affects not only the skin, but also nails, hair, and mucous membranes. Treatment includes special wound care, the use of protective dressings, drug therapy, and surgery in severe cases. Because of the significant impact on patients’ quality of life, ensuring access to necessary care is critical.