Turkey plans to erase GSS premium debts for 1 million citizens

A new legislative package expected to be submitted to the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) aims to erase the General Health Insurance (GSS) premium debts of approximately 1 million citizens. The proposed regulation focuses on uncollected debts that have exceeded the 10-year statute of limitations, specifically targeting debts from 2017.

The initiative, led by the AK Party, seeks to alleviate the financial burden on individuals who lack other social security coverage and have accumulated unpaid premiums. While previous regulations addressed debts from 2012 through 2016, this new measure is intended to clear the records of those currently facing debt-related barriers to accessing public health services.

Details regarding the exact scope, specific debt periods, and whether late fees and interest will be included are expected to be clarified once the bill is formally presented to Parliament. Authorities aim to finalize the legislative process and have the regulation enacted in the Official Gazette before the end of the year to ensure citizens can access healthcare services without debt-related obstacles in the new year.