“Since the programme came into effect, 150 citizens have had their costly rheumatoid arthritis medication funded,” announced Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze at today’s session of the municipal government.

He further explained that the programme provides for the issuance of a materialised voucher every three months for the receipt of Actemra, which the citizen then uses to collect the medication from a pharmacy.

“The launch of the ‘Rheumatoid Arthritis Medication Funding’ programme was an electoral pledge, and today that pledge has been honoured. What matters most to us is not the numbers, but each individual who needs assistance. Those registered in the unified database of socially vulnerable families whose rating score does not exceed 150,000 will have the medication funded in full, at 100%, whilst all other beneficiaries will receive 80% funding,” said Kakha Kaladze.

He further stated that a citizen must apply to the City Service for Healthcare and Social Services, providing the necessary documentation, to receive the requisite materialised voucher.

“Georgian citizens diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis who have been continuously registered in the municipality of Tbilisi for the two years preceding their application, and who are registered there at the time of joining the programme, are eligible to participate in the Tbilisi City Hall scheme. Rheumatoid arthritis is a debilitating condition. It brings with it pain and restricted movement. When a person is allowed to receive modern treatment, that is not merely a matter of health; it is a restoration of life itself. A person is once again able to work, to care for their family. For us, social programmes are not a formal obligation. They are a responsibility to people, a commitment to their dignity and their daily lives,” said Kakha Kaladze.

He noted that the municipality’s programme came into effect in September 2025.