The article examines the assumption that the Soviet health service is based on egalitarian principles. It references an authoritative statement from the USSR Health Ministry's planning and financial directorate, which outlines a unitary health service plan integrated into the state plan for economic and social development. The ideological foundation is attributed to the participation of V I Lenin. However, the article also highlights institutional factors that may hinder equality of health service provision, such as democratic centralism, which allows Union republics and local units to develop their health services beyond all-Union guidelines. The interaction between all-Union sector plans and territorial plans, which reflect local economic development, is noted as a key aspect of planning. The article suggests that while there is an organic unity between these plans, there is a risk that territorial plans may have a regressive impact, given that economic development is likely to be greater in areas with existing growth. The article also notes that there is no mention of institutional arrangements specifically designed to reduce geographical disparities in access to medical care. The statistical data presented suggest that unless the concept of territorial justice is accepted, the Soviet health service will continue to display significant spatial inequalities. The article also discusses the importance of administration in healthcare, emphasizing that it is not merely management but involves coordination, negotiation, and consultation to ensure that the legitimate aspirations of all groups are met. It highlights the role of administration in facilitating teamwork, coordinating activities, and ensuring that the system functions effectively. The article argues that doctors are always administrators, even if they do not realize it, as they need to coordinate with others in the care of patients. Administration is not management, as it does not involve authority or power but rather persuasion and consultation. The article also discusses the importance of meetings in healthcare, noting that while they may be seen as a burden, they are essential for ensuring that all voices are heard and that the system functions effectively. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting the roles of different professionals in the healthcare system.The article examines the assumption that the Soviet health service is based on egalitarian principles. It references an authoritative statement from the USSR Health Ministry's planning and financial directorate, which outlines a unitary health service plan integrated into the state plan for economic and social development. The ideological foundation is attributed to the participation of V I Lenin. However, the article also highlights institutional factors that may hinder equality of health service provision, such as democratic centralism, which allows Union republics and local units to develop their health services beyond all-Union guidelines. The interaction between all-Union sector plans and territorial plans, which reflect local economic development, is noted as a key aspect of planning. The article suggests that while there is an organic unity between these plans, there is a risk that territorial plans may have a regressive impact, given that economic development is likely to be greater in areas with existing growth. The article also notes that there is no mention of institutional arrangements specifically designed to reduce geographical disparities in access to medical care. The statistical data presented suggest that unless the concept of territorial justice is accepted, the Soviet health service will continue to display significant spatial inequalities. The article also discusses the importance of administration in healthcare, emphasizing that it is not merely management but involves coordination, negotiation, and consultation to ensure that the legitimate aspirations of all groups are met. It highlights the role of administration in facilitating teamwork, coordinating activities, and ensuring that the system functions effectively. The article argues that doctors are always administrators, even if they do not realize it, as they need to coordinate with others in the care of patients. Administration is not management, as it does not involve authority or power but rather persuasion and consultation. The article also discusses the importance of meetings in healthcare, noting that while they may be seen as a burden, they are essential for ensuring that all voices are heard and that the system functions effectively. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting the roles of different professionals in the healthcare system.