Slovak Health Minister announces new emergency service tender plan

Slovak Health Minister Kamil Šaško has announced a forthcoming proposal to reform the tender process for operating emergency medical services (ZZS) stations. Following a decision by the Public Procurement Office, Šaško stated that the previous method of allocating stations "can no longer and will never work as it did before." He expects to present a new professional plan to the Commission for Urgent Healthcare within weeks.

In addition to emergency services, the Minister addressed hospital infrastructure, noting that investments in new air conditioning units are underway in cities such as Bratislava and Košice. However, he emphasized that systemic solutions, including electrical and technical infrastructure upgrades, will require larger investments.

Regarding healthcare financing, Šaško indicated that funding for new hospital construction would be sought through future budgets. He also commented on the potential merger of private health insurance companies Dôvera and Union, expressing support for the combination of public and private resources provided there is strict regulatory monitoring.