Slovakia emergency medical services remain in provisional mode

Slovakia's emergency medical service (ZZS) continues to operate under a provisional regime a year after a controversial two-billion-euro tender was canceled. The tender, originally intended to manage 344 ground stations and seven helicopter stations, was scrapped following allegations of lack of transparency and suspicions of favoritism toward specific entities, including the Agel financial group.

Following the cancellation, Health Minister Kamil Šaško granted existing operators temporary mandates. However, the opposition party KDH is demanding a clear, final plan for the service's future, warning that the ongoing uncertainty is preventing necessary investments. KDH representative František Majerský has called for a physical audit of stations to ensure equipment is properly distributed and maintained.

The situation is further complicated by a proposal to move emergency services under hospital emergency departments, a move strongly opposed by paramedics and the KDH. Additionally, the General Prosecutor and police are investigating the original tender process for potential abuse of power by public officials.