Transformation of the medical care system in Kazakhstan: the role and potential of specialists with extended medical practice.

Authors

  • Anar Tursynbekova PhD doctor, Head of the Department of Communication Skills and Clinical Psychology, Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
  • Assel D Sadykova PhD, Post Doc of the Department General Doctoral Practice, Medical Faculty, Al-farabi Kazakh National University, Epidemiologist doctor in Almaty AIDS center
  • Gulshara Aimbetova PhD doctor, Head of the Department of Communication Skills and Clinical Psychology, Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
  • Issenova Balday PhD doctor, Head of the Department of Communication Skills and Clinical Psychology, Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
  • Karlygash Tazhibayeva PhD, Post Doc of the Department General Doctoral Practice, Medical Faculty, Al-farabi Kazakh National University, Epidemiologist doctor in Almaty AIDS center
  • Aiman Mussina Ass.prof. of the Department of “Public Health” Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
  • Nursultan Zhunissali Ass.prof. of the Department of “Public Health” Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
  • Gulnoza Aldabekova Ass.prof. of the Department of “Public Health” Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
  • Aizat Seidakhmetova PhD in “Nursing science”. Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
  • Gulnar Zhantuova PhD, PostDoc, MD, Ass.Professor, Head of the Surgery Department, Medical Faculty, Al-farabi Kazakh National University ,Oncologist gynaecologist doctor in Almaty Multidisciplinary Regional Clinic. Almaty, Kazakhstan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v25i1.86432

Keywords:

Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs); Kazakhstan healthcare system; healthcare access; nursing education; rural healthcare, interprofessional collaboration; regulatory challenges; healthcare reform; barriers to integration; chronic disease management

Abstract

Background Kazakhstan’s healthcare system faces significant challenges, including limited access to care in rural areas and a shortage of healthcare professionals. Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs), with their advanced education and clinical expertise, have been shown to improve healthcare access and quality worldwide, especially in underserved regions. Despite this potential, the role of APNs in Kazakhstan is underdeveloped. Aim This study aims to explore the perceptions, challenges, and opportunities surrounding the integration of APNs into Kazakhstan’s healthcare system. It examines the barriers to adopting APN roles and investigates the potential impact of APNs on improving healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Methods A qualitative design was used, involving semi-structured interviews with 15 participants, including nurses, healthcare administrators, and policymakers. Data were analyzed thematically to identify key barriers, perceptions, and opportunities related to the integration of APNs into the healthcare system. Findings will inform policy and provide recommendations for APN development in Kazakhstan. Results The study found a lack of awareness about APN roles, particularly in rural areas, with regulatory and educational barriers hindering their integration. Resistance from physicians and the absence of graduatelevel nursing programs were key challenges. However, participants recognized the potential of APNs to improve healthcare access and outcomes, especially in underserved areas. Conclusion To successfully integrate APNs into Kazakhstan’s healthcare system, clear regulatory frameworks, advanced nursing education, and stronger interprofessional collaboration are essential. These steps will help improve healthcare access and outcomes, particularly in rural areas.

BJMS, Vol. 25 No. 01 January’26 Page : 317-326

 

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Author Biography

Anar Tursynbekova, PhD doctor, Head of the Department of Communication Skills and Clinical Psychology, Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan

 

 

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Published

2026-01-26

How to Cite

Tursynbekova, A., Sadykova, A. D., Aimbetova, G., Balday, I., Tazhibayeva, K., Mussina, A., … Zhantuova, G. (2026). Transformation of the medical care system in Kazakhstan: the role and potential of specialists with extended medical practice. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science, 25(1), 317–326. https://doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v25i1.86432

Issue

Vol. 25 No. 1 (2026)

Section

Original Articles

License

Copyright (c) 2026 Anar Tursynbekova, Assel D. Sadykova, Gulshara Aimbetova, Issenova Balday, Karlygash Tazhibayeva, Aiman Mussina, Nursultan Zhunissali,Gulnoza Aldabekova, Aizat Seidakhmetova, Gulnar Zhantuova

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