Slovakia health insurance deadline approaches amid calls for systemic efficiency

In Slovakia, the deadline for citizens to switch health insurance providers for the upcoming year is September 30. Applications submitted electronically must be signed with a digital signature by 23:59 on that date, while postal applications are valid if postmarked by September 30.

Martin Kultan, CEO of the Dôvera health insurance company, has highlighted the need for increased efficiency within the healthcare system. He noted that the current network of hospitals and departments is economically unsustainable and criticized the cycle of providing additional funds to state hospitals without addressing underlying productivity issues.

Regarding industry consolidation, Kultan stated that the merger between Dôvera and Union is currently awaiting approvals from the Health Care Surveillance Authority and the European Commission, with the process expected to conclude in 2027. He also noted that while insurance companies' profits are strictly regulated, many hospitals continue to face significant financial losses due to rising personnel costs and inefficient hospitalizations.