Today : Mar 04, 2025
Health
02 March 2025

Navigated The New Medical Certificate Acquisition Rules

Changes to medical certificate procedures improve road safety and compliance for taxpayers

Procedures for acquiring medical certificates have become increasingly stringent, especially for those needing to reinstate their driving privileges or claim tax deductions for medical expenses. The protocols involved are aimed not only at ensuring personal safety but also at maintaining the integrity of medical documentation.

At the forefront of these changes is the process necessary for drivers who wish to regain their licenses after losing them. According to Лейсан Асхадуллина, the senior nurse at the Republican Clinical Narcological Dispensary, candidates must undergo standard medical checks at accredited clinics and obtain specific forms, namely the 003-B/u certificate, to prove their fitness to drive again. This includes evaluations by psychiatrists and narcologists, which must be conducted solely at registered dispensaries based on the individual's registered address.

Asshadullina elaborated on the current regulations, stating, "Требования к медицинскому освидетельствованию достаточно жесткие, так как законодательство нацелено на восстановление безопасности на дорогах" (The requirements for medical examinations are quite strict as the legislation aims to restore road safety). This regulation signifies the government's commitment to ensuring drivers on the road are not engaged in substances affecting their ability to operate vehicles.

The process begins with presenting proper identification, where registrars verify if the individual is under the care of drug specialists. Following this, candidates will enter contractual agreements for medical services. A significant part of the evaluation involves mandatory drug testing, which screens for multiple substances using urine samples. A negative result from these tests is followed by recommendations for blood tests to determine alcohol misuse markers, such as carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT), which can only be processed by laboratories with appropriate licensing.

This rigorous medical examination protocol ensures those who have lost their licenses due to substance misuse can demonstrate their commitment to safe driving practices before retaking the wheel. These health screenings and tests typically yield results within five working days and need to be accompanied by compulsory educational sessions on avoiding driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Adding to the emphasis on maintaining valid medical certificates, the authorities stipulate strict penalties for any malpractice concerning their issuance. “Справки от нарколога являются документами строгой отчетности, за их подделку могут привлечь к административной и уголовной ответственности” (Clinical drug treatment certificates are documents of strict accountability, and forgery could lead to administrative and criminal liability), noted Asshadullina, reinforcing the serious nature of fraud in this arena.

On the tax front, recent guidance from the Russian tax authority (UFSN) indicates substantial shifts for individuals claiming medical expense deductions. For the 2024 tax year, taxpayers must provide evidence using the new form KND 1151156, as validators will not accept any supporting documents from previous years—they will only accept the latest format. This change, propelled by updated legislation, is meant to standardize how medical expenses are verified and reported.

“По расходам 2024 года в качестве подтверждающего документа необходимо предоставить только справку об оплате медицинских услуг по форме КНД 1151156” (For medical expenses incurred in 2024, only receipt forms meeting KND 1151156 requirements will be accepted by the tax authorities), stipulated representatives from UFSN Komi. This measure aims to eliminate ambiguity surrounding acceptable documentations and cut down on the potential for fraud.

Taxpayers are urged to keep abreast of the latest documentation requirements, as failure to comply may lead to denied deductions. Interestingly, older forms will only be accepted for claims relating to expenses incurred during 2022 and 2023, emphasizing the increasing pressure for accurate and updated filings.

With these new regulations, it is evident the government is stepping up its efforts to preserve public safety and the integrity of medical documentation. Individuals seeking to return to driving or to claim tax deductions must navigate these enhanced procedures carefully, ensuring they remain compliant with all requirements to avoid potential pitfalls. Professionals across healthcare and tax sectors remain vigilant as they enforce these rules, recognizing their shared responsibility for public accountability and safety.