Kazakhstan Identifies Over 1,100 Suspicious Disability Cases, Refers Hundreds to Law Enforcement

Kazakhstan is intensifying scrutiny of disability certifications, having identified over 1,100 suspicious cases, with more than 160 referred to law enforcement agencies. Askarbek Yertayev, Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population, revealed that selective audits of disability status assignments began in February.

"To date, approximately 1,133 suspicious cases have been identified. Of these, we have handed over 167 files to law enforcement agencies," Yertayev stated in an interview. He noted that some medical advisory commission reports for different patients were found to be virtually identical, indicating a practice of document copying. In response, the ministry is collaborating with the Ministry of Health to implement systemic changes.

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To date, approximately 1,133 suspicious cases have been identified. Of these, we have handed over 167 files to law enforcement agencies.

Plans are underway to consolidate and integrate the information systems of both ministries by the end of the year. This integration will allow specialists to meticulously track patient examinations, review conducted tests, and examine the data used to justify disability certifications. A digital model is also being developed to automatically detect duplicate or suspicious medical reports, alongside internal preventative measures and reminders to staff about their professional liabilities.

While 63 specific medical conditions grant indefinite disability status without periodic re-examination, the state's focus is shifting from mere status assignment to rehabilitation. Doctors will now prescribe rehabilitation if a patient's condition is deemed improvable. The minister highlighted cases where individuals progressed from Group II disability to Group III, and eventually had their status revoked after recovery and returning to work. Citizens can request re-examinations if they disagree with a commission's decision. Currently, about 40 percent of applications are processed remotely, but in-person examinations remain standard for others. Full digitalization aims to eliminate the need for manual paperwork.

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It is obvious that documents were simply copied. Therefore, we held talks with the Ministry of Health and agreed to a systemic change in our approach.