The list of specialized therapeutic nutrition products for children with disabilities has been expanded to 119 items

The list of specialized therapeutic nutrition products for children with disabilities has been expanded to 119 items.

The updated list includes therapeutic nutrition products for children with cystic fibrosis aged 1 to 10 years, as well as for children with fatty acid oxidation disorders.

Therapeutic nutrition products are specialized liquid and dry formulas needed by children with orphan (rare) diseases to improve their quality of life and support growth and development. These products are provided free of charge upon prescription from a physician. The list is compiled by a special commission of the Ministry of Health with the participation of the ministry’s leading external specialists, including the chief external specialist in medical genetics. The document is then approved by the Government.

In 2023, the Government streamlined the procedure for compiling this list, allowing it to be amended twice a year (twice as often as previously), depending on the availability of new specialized products. This allows for the prompt prescription of such products to children with severe illnesses.

The issue of expanding the list was discussed at a meeting with deputy prime ministers on November 10. Mikhail Mishustin emphasized that children with complex diagnoses require special care, and most importantly, specialized therapeutic nutrition prescribed by a doctor.

“It helps children develop better, lead a more active and fulfilling lifestyle, and the sooner young patients begin taking it, the better for their health,” the Prime Minister noted.

The head of the Cabinet also asked his colleagues in the regions to regularly replenish the range of this therapeutic food, ensuring it is available in sufficient quantities so that parents can get it for their children as soon as the need arises.