Regional public health policy during the COVID-19 pandemic (a case of the Republic of Tatarstan)

The authors examine the regional level of the healthcare system's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Taking the Republic of Tatarstan as an example, it is shown that a relatively higher level of development of the regional public health sector did not lead to a more successful response to the problems caused by the pandemic. The study was conducted in the Republic of Tatarstan from October 2020 to March 2021 in focus groups and semi-standardized interviews. An analysis of interviews and focus group sessions conducted with experts made it possible to assert that the problems of the region have become a reflection of the systemic healthcare problems of the Russian Federation. The prospects for further development of the healthcare system are assessed, and a number of measures are proposed to improve it. The results of the study can be used in the interests of the authorities to improve the healthcare system in the region, as well as to develop scientific potential in this area.