The "Zemsky Doctor" program is implemented 100% in the Nizhny Novgorod region.

      July 24, 2025, 17:42

      [151]

      Society

      The "Zemsky Doctor" program in the Nizhny Novgorod region is being successfully implemented at 100%, representatives of the All-Russian People's Front (Onf) reported. According to Andrey Zhiltsov, head of the regional branch of Onf, for many participants the project has become not just a career choice but a true vocation.

      As noted by Mikhail Kuznetsov, Executive Secretary of the People's Front, zemsky programs overall demonstrate high efficiency across the country. According to a survey, 79% of specialists admitted that a one-time payment was the key factor in their decision to move to rural areas. At the same time, 85% of participants would recommend others join the program.

      However, only half of those surveyed expressed willingness to remain working in the countryside after the five-year term: 30% are already planning to leave, and another 20% are still undecided.

      Based on the analysis, the People's Front identified both strengths of the program and areas for improvement. Russian President Vladimir Putin instructed that these conclusions be taken into account when developing new initiatives within zemsky projects.

      One of the key proposals is to increase compensation for specialists relocating to rural areas. Currently, doctors receive 1 million rubles, and feldshers — 500,000. However, experts note that these amounts are insufficient even for purchasing housing in rural areas.

      The existing rural mortgage program with a preferential rate of 3% is only available to those working in settlements with populations up to 30,000. Meanwhile, zemsky programs also cover cities with populations up to 50,000, which do not formally qualify for the preferential conditions. Accordingly, the People's Front proposes expanding the rural mortgage to all areas where zemsky projects are implemented, and prioritizing access for specialists involved in these programs.

      Other survey participants pointed out the lack of comprehensive support after relocation. Doctors face difficulties in securing places for their children in kindergartens, finding housing, and dealing with everyday issues.

      Nevertheless, several regions are already implementing additional measures to enhance the attractiveness of the program. For example, subsidies of up to 2 million rubles for housing are being provided, and employers offer monthly payments and assistance with rent.

      Special attention was drawn by experts to age restrictions. Doctors can participate regardless of age, whereas teachers and cultural workers must be no older than 55. This excludes many experienced specialists from participating. The People's Front suggests relaxing this requirement if a vacancy remains unfilled for more than a year, and considering candidates on a case-by-case basis.

      It was previously reported that the Nizhny Novgorod region was among the leaders in the implementation of the federal "Zemsky Teacher" program.

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