An 18-year-old resident of Yekaterinburg, Anastasia, is struggling to obtain her necessary medication for Crohn’s disease after being denied access to free prescriptions. Anastasia, who has been diagnosed with the condition since adolescence, requires constant intake of the drug “Ranvek.”

The denial stems from her parents’ decision in 2025 to opt for monetary compensation instead of the package of social services that includes free medicine. This choice, according to the Sverdlovsk Region Ministry of Health, means that all outpatient treatment medications must now be purchased at the individual’s expense.

Crohn’s disease is described as a chronic autoimmune condition affecting the digestive tract. It leads to inflammation, ulcers, and granulomas within the gastrointestinal system.

While the family previously received the medication through the children’s clinic, Anastasia’s recent 18th birthday has changed the situation. When she and her mother requested the medication in 2025, they were refused.

The compensation benefit for parents of a disabled child is 1728 rubles per month. A package of 28 “Ranvek” tablets costs approximately 48,000 rubles and is only available in one pharmacy in the city.

Anastasia now has the option to independently restore her right to receive free medication. As an adult, she can apply to reinstate her eligibility by contacting the local branch of the Social Fund of Russia before October 1, 2025.

Other individuals receiving free medication are also advised to reapply before October 1 through the Social Fund, MFC, or the “Gosuslugi” online portal.