Healthcare systems in Central Europe undergo digital reforms

Central and Eastern European healthcare systems are undergoing significant digital transformations and funding debates.

In the Czech Republic, the Coalition of Private Doctors is requesting approximately 15 billion CZK in subsidies to implement mandatory electronic medical documentation. They argue that while EU funds have supported hospital digitalization, private outpatient clinics have received insufficient financial assistance to cover costs estimated at 100,000 to 250,000 CZK per practice. Meanwhile, specialists in cardiology are calling for structural changes to delegate stable patients to regional centers to alleviate pressure on specialized hospitals.

Poland is expanding its central e-registration system, which is set to include various medical specialties by 2027. This initiative aims to allow patients to search for appointments via the Internetowe Konto Pacjenta (IKP) and mobile apps, reducing the need for telephone registrations. Additionally, Poland is transitioning to fully electronic occupational medicine certificates by October 2026. The mojeIKP app has also introduced a pharmacy map to facilitate the use of split e-prescriptions.

In Slovakia, discussions continue regarding the transition to a performance-based DRG financing system. Hospital directors have raised concerns about the rapid pace of these changes and the need for funding to support the specialized teams required for 24/7 medical readiness.