The family doctor or primary care provider does not exist in Ukraine. Patients do not choose their doctor. Adult patients go to a district doctor. If they are not satisfied with the services or find the treatment ineffective, they may find another doctor, who would expect to be paid for giving advice or treatment. These documents state the disease and the numbers of days to stay at home or in hospital.
Patients try to maintain a good relationship with doctors, often by means of bribes.
Doctors in Ukraine work in tandem with a nurse, who does most of the paperwork. The patient's medical history is carefully recorded and kept for years, including all visits to specialists, immunizations, laboratory tests and hospitalizations. Patients can see specialists on their own or on the district doctor's advice. Chiropractors are gaining more respect as efficient health care providers. Many people in urban areas prefer a chiropractor for certain treatments.