Description:

This study examines the similar and different aspects of the medical legislation of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the medical legislation of developed states. The research focuses on key legal areas such as patients’ rights, healthcare professionals’ responsibilities, medical ethics, licensing and accreditation of medical institutions, health insurance systems, and state regulation of healthcare services. The analysis shows that Azerbaijan’s medical legislation is largely aligned with international legal principles, including the protection of human dignity, the right to health, informed consent, and confidentiality of medical information. Similarities are also observed in the regulation of medical practice standards and public health protection. At the same time, significant differences exist in the scope of legal implementation, enforcement mechanisms, financing models, and the level of integration of digital health technologies. Developed states tend to have more comprehensive regulatory frameworks, stronger institutional control, and wider application of evidence-based medical law. In contrast, Azerbaijan’s medical legislation is still evolving, with ongoing reforms aimed at harmonization with international standards. The study highlights the importance of legal modernization, institutional capacity building, and comparative legal analysis for improving the national healthcare system and ensuring effective protection of patients’ rights. Medical law is the basis for protecting patients' rights and providing effective health services. This article compares the medical law system of the Republic of Azerbaijan with the models of the United States, Great Britain and Germany. Similarities stem from international bioethics standards (UNESCO Declaration) and emphasize patient autonomy, while differences arise from system models (state-centered vs. market/social insurance). The innovations of 2025 – changes to residency rules and penalties for illegal abortions in Azerbaijan, budget cuts in the United States, a 10-year plan in Great Britain, hospital reform in Germany – make the comparison relevant. The analysis is based on legislative documents and international reports, and provides recommendations for Azerbaijan.