[The decriminalization of medical activity: modern challenges and actual issues]

The article examines impact of legislative change regarding decriminalization of medical activities in Russia on health care system, as well as on legal and social aspects of medical practice. The key changes in the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, in particular, amendments concerning article 238, which was applied for long time for criminal prosecution of physicians are analyzed. The study considers consequences of these changes for positioning of medical professionals and principles of medical services support with emphasis on need for secure medical practice in conditions of legal uncertainty. The attention is drawn to history of development of changes and to challenges physicians faced under pressure of criminal legislation. The opinions of experts and medical lawyers are considered. The significance of difference between concepts medical care and medical service is emphasized that is directly related to criminal liability of physicians. It is noted that, despite partial decriminalization, issues of quality of medical services and responsibility of medical organizations continue to be actual. The adoption of new norms established prerequisites for improving working conditions of physicians and increasing confidence in national medical community. The adopted law promises to reduce stress and professional burnout in medical professionals and contributes into formation of more efficient and secure medical care of the population.