Czech healthcare reform targets structural changes and centralized public health protection

The Czech Ministry of Health is preparing structural reforms to the healthcare system, with many changes expected to take effect by 2028. Proposed plans by Minister Adam Vojtěch include amending four major laws to centralize public health protection into a single institution, merging regional hygiene stations and the National Institute of Public Health.

The reform also aims to expand the competencies of non-medical professionals and pharmacists, such as allowing flu vaccinations in pharmacies, and introduces financial bonuses for participation in prevention and screening programs.

Parallel to these structural changes, concerns persist regarding the management of health insurance companies. While various bodies, including the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Finance, and the Supreme Audit Office, conduct audits, there are calls for greater transparency and accountability. Critics argue that current oversight lacks effective follow-up to ensure that identified deficiencies in management, public procurement, and service reporting are actually corrected.