The new law is intended to replace the Fundamentals of the RF Legislation on the Protection of Citizens' Health of 1993. It defines the legal, economic and organizational foundations for protecting the health of citizens, their rights and obligations in this area, and guarantees for their implementation. The law also establishes the powers and responsibilities of the authorities, the rights and obligations of medical organizations, pharmaceuticals and medical workers.

Among the basic principles of health care are the availability and quality of medical care; inadmissibility of refusal in it; the priority of the patient's interests in its provision, as well as the protection of children's health and prevention. For the first time, the law establishes the obligation of citizens to take care of the preservation of their health.

From January 1, 2012, the regional executive authorities are delegated the powers of municipalities to organize the provision of primary health care and emergency medical care. Since 2014, they have also been entrusted with federal powers to provide medicines to persons suffering from orphan diseases. For their purchase, the regions will be allocated subventions from the federal budget.

It is envisaged to approve the procedures for the provision and standards of medical care. Moreover, the first from 2013 will be mandatory for all medical organizations in the country. Free types of medical care and paid services are clearly distinguished. The concept of palliative medical care is introduced - getting rid of pain and alleviating other severe manifestations of the disease in order to improve the quality of life of terminally ill citizens. The previous procedure for the removal of organs and tissues for transplantation (presumption of consent) is maintained.

The right of one of the parents (another family member) to be in the hospital with the child free of charge during the entire period of his treatment is confirmed. At the same time, a bed and food will also be provided free of charge if the child is under 4 years old or if the child is together with him is due to medical reasons. The issues of using assisted reproductive technologies are regulated in detail. Measures are envisaged to reduce the number of abortions. The woman will be given at least 2 days to think about her decision.

Restrictions are introduced for medical and pharmaceutical workers to communicate with representatives of pharmaceutical manufacturers. From January 1, 2016, specialist certificates are replaced with accreditation certificates. The latter is a confirmation of the readiness to engage in medical activities in a certain specialty in accordance with the procedures for the provision and standards of medical care. The internship will be closed on September 1, 2017.

The attending physician issues a sick leave alone for a period of up to 15 days (previously - up to 30 days), further extension is possible through a medical commission.