Czech Republic introduces new hearing and vision screening initiatives

New health initiatives in the Czech Republic are focusing on early detection of sensory impairments. Starting January 1, 2027, the Ministry of Health will implement a standardized procedure for hearing tests during preventive check-ups for individuals over the age of 50. General practitioners will use methods such as whispered word tests, questionnaires, or tone-based devices to screen for hearing loss. If a patient fails the test, they will be referred to an ear specialist for further examination.

In Ostrava, a mobile clinic utilizing artificial intelligence will offer free retinal screenings to the public to mark World Sight Day. The AI-powered device is designed to detect early signs of retinal diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME), which can lead to blindness if left untreated. Experts note that AMD affects one in six people over the age of 65 and emphasizes the importance of early detection to prevent vision loss.