Verified Facts

Official NameCzech Republic
CapitalPrague
Population10.9 million
Area78,865 km² (30,450 sq mi)
LanguagesCzech, Slovak
CurrencyCzech koruna (Kč)
TimezoneUTC+01:00
RegionEurope / Central Europe
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

The Czech Republic has a well-structured and high-quality universal healthcare system that provides comprehensive medical care to its citizens and foreigners, with a strong network of hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies throughout the country.

Quick Facts

Healthcare SystemUniversal
Quality RatingExcellent
Emergency Number112
Hospital StandardExcellent
Insurance Requiredrecommended
Pharmacy Accesswidespread

Healthcare Overview

The Czech Republic's healthcare system is based on a universal model, where every citizen is entitled to medical care, and it is financed through a combination of government funding and health insurance premiums. The system is divided into public and private sectors, with the public sector providing the majority of healthcare services. The quality of care in the Czech Republic is considered to be among the best in Europe, with well-equipped hospitals and highly trained medical professionals. In urban areas, such as Prague, access to healthcare is generally excellent, with a wide range of medical facilities and specialists available. However, in rural areas, access to healthcare can be more limited, with fewer medical facilities and specialists available.

The Czech Republic's healthcare system is also known for its high standard of public health, with a strong focus on prevention and health promotion. The country has a well-developed network of health centers and clinics, which provide a range of services, including vaccinations, screenings, and health checks. Additionally, the Czech Republic has a high level of healthcare accessibility, with most medical facilities and services available to everyone, regardless of income or social status.

The Czech Republic's healthcare system is also characterized by a high level of patient satisfaction, with patients generally reporting high levels of satisfaction with the quality of care they receive. This is due in part to the country's strong focus on patient-centered care, which emphasizes the importance of patient involvement and empowerment in the healthcare process.

Hospitals & Clinics

FacilityLocationTypeSpecialtiesEnglish-Speaking
Motol University HospitalPraguePublicGeneral, pediatric, cardiacYes
Na Homolce HospitalPraguePrivateGeneral, orthopedic, neurosurgicalYes
St. Anne's University HospitalBrnoPublicGeneral, oncologic, infectious diseasesLimited
University Hospital OstravaOstravaPublicGeneral, pediatric, gynecologicLimited
Canadian Medical CarePraguePrivateGeneral, dental, cosmetic surgeryYes
Medicom a.s.PraguePrivateGeneral, orthopedic, rehabilitationYes

Health Insurance

  • The Czech Republic has a mandatory health insurance system, and all citizens and foreigners living in the country are required to have health insurance.
  • There are several types of health insurance available, including public, private, and supplemental insurance.
  • Public health insurance is the most common type of insurance, and it is provided by several insurance companies, including the Czech Republic's largest insurer, VZP.
  • Private health insurance is also available, and it is often used by foreigners and those who want additional coverage.
  • Supplemental insurance is also available, and it can provide additional coverage for services such as dental care and vision care.
  • The cost of health insurance in the Czech Republic varies depending on the type of insurance and the individual's circumstances, but it is generally considered to be relatively affordable.

Pharmacies & Medications

  • Pharmacies are widely available in the Czech Republic, and they can be found in most towns and cities.
  • A wide range of medications is available, including prescription and over-the-counter medications.
  • Prescription medications are available only with a prescription from a licensed physician, and they are dispensed by pharmacies.
  • Over-the-counter medications are available without a prescription, and they can be purchased at pharmacies and other retail outlets.
  • The cost of medications in the Czech Republic is generally considered to be relatively affordable, with many medications available at a lower cost than in other European countries.

Vaccinations & Health Risks

  • The Czech Republic has a low risk of infectious diseases, and there are no specific vaccinations required for travel to the country.
  • However, it is recommended that travelers be up to date on all routine vaccinations, including tetanus, diphtheria, and Hepatitis A.
  • Influenza is a common illness in the Czech Republic, and travelers should consider getting a flu shot before visiting the country.
  • The Czech Republic has a low risk of foodborne illnesses, and food safety standards are generally high.
  • The country has a low risk of waterborne illnesses, and tap water is generally safe to drink.

Medical Tourism

  • The Czech Republic is a popular destination for medical tourism, with many foreigners traveling to the country for medical treatment.
  • The country has a well-developed network of private hospitals and clinics, which offer a range of medical services, including cosmetic surgery, dental care, and orthopedic surgery.
  • Many of these facilities are accredited by international organizations, such as the Joint Commission International, and they offer high-quality care at a lower cost than in many other European countries.
  • The cost of medical treatment in the Czech Republic can vary depending on the procedure and the facility, but it is generally considered to be relatively affordable.

Emergency Procedures

  • In the event of a medical emergency, travelers should call the emergency number, 112, which is available 24/7.
  • Ambulance services are widely available, and they can be summoned by calling the emergency number.
  • The Czech Republic has a well-developed network of emergency medical services, and medical professionals are generally well-trained and equipped to handle emergencies.
  • Travelers should be prepared to provide their health insurance information and other relevant details in the event of an emergency.
  • It is also a good idea for travelers to have a list of emergency contacts and other important phone numbers, such as their embassy and insurance provider.
Related: Healthcare Costs