Health Care Law at Slovakia
Slovakia's healthcare system is governed by a comprehensive legal framework that ensures universal access to medical services, regulates health insurance, and protects patient rights. Here's an overview of the key aspects:
🏛️ Legal Framework
Slovakia's healthcare system is primarily regulated by the following laws:
Act No. 576/2004 Coll.: Regulates healthcare services, including the rights and obligations of healthcare providers and recipients.
Act No. 577/2004 Coll.: Defines the scope of healthcare covered by public health insurance and associated patient contributions.
Act No. 578/2004 Coll.: Addresses the regulation of healthcare providers, professionals, and related organizations.
Act No. 580/2004 Coll.: Establishes the framework for health insurance in Slovakia.
Act No. 581/2004 Coll.: Focuses on the operation of health insurance companies and healthcare supervision.
Act No. 362/2011 Coll.: Covers the regulation of medicines and medical devices.
Act No. 363/2011 Coll.: Details the reimbursement conditions for medicines, medical devices, and dietetic foods under public health insurance.
Act No. 153/2013 Coll.: Pertains to the national health information system.
Act No. 355/2007 Coll.: Focuses on public health protection, promotion, and development.
These laws collectively establish the operational and regulatory framework for Slovakia's healthcare system.
🏥 Public Health Insurance
Public health insurance is mandatory for all individuals with permanent residency in Slovakia. Foreign nationals can also be covered if they meet specific conditions, such as employment, self-employment, or holding a residence permit. Coverage begins upon meeting these criteria and signing up within eight days. (Public health insurance - IOM Migration information center)
The system operates under the Health Insurance Act (Act No. 580/2004 Coll.), which mandates contributions from employees, employers, and the state. Health insurance companies, including the state-run General Health Insurance Company (Všeobecná zdravotná poisťovňa) and private insurers like Union and Dôvera, manage these funds. (Healthcare in Slovakia)
⚖️ Patient Rights
Slovak law guarantees several rights to patients, including:
Access to healthcare without discrimination based on gender, religion, age, or other protected characteristics.
The right to choose healthcare providers and to receive information about their health status and treatment options.
Informed consent for medical procedures and the right to refuse treatment.
Confidentiality regarding medical records.
Protection against retaliation for filing complaints.
🏛️ Recent Legislative Developments
In December 2024, Slovakia's parliament passed legislation allowing the government to declare a state of emergency in healthcare. During such an emergency, healthcare professionals' resignation notices can be invalidated, compelling them to continue working under threat of imprisonment. This measure was introduced in response to over 3,000 doctors threatening resignation due to dissatisfaction with their pay. (Slovakia's parliament passes legislation that could ban doctors from protesting low pay)
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