Croatian Medical Chamber disputes athlete exam price hike claims

The Croatian Medical Chamber (HLK) has disputed claims by the Croatian Football Union regarding massive price hikes for health examinations of young athletes. While the Union alleged costs had increased seven to eleven times, the HLK maintains that the changes represent a minimal correction.

The dispute follows a new regulation from the Ministry of Health published in March, which expanded the required scope of medical examinations. The HLK stated that the lowest price for a routine check-up is now 30 euros, while periodic and extraordinary examinations start at 60 euros, excluding laboratory work.

The Chamber noted that under previous regulations, examinations were typically required every six months, whereas the new rules allow certificates to remain valid for 12 or 24 months depending on the sport. Consequently, the HLK argues that the total annual cost for athletes may actually be lower. They also cited inflation of nearly 40 percent since 2017 as a factor in the price adjustments.