Slovakia hospitals face heatwave crisis as lack of air‑conditioning endangers patients

A wave of extreme summer temperatures is straining Slovak hospitals, where many wards lack functional air‑conditioning. Patients report unbearable conditions, with one saying, “Tu sa nedá ani dýchať” (‘You can’t even breathe here’). Doctors warn that the heat slows recovery, especially for children and post‑operative patients.

The Christian Democratic Movement (KDH) has criticised Health Minister Kamila Šašková for not presenting a crisis plan, urging the ministry to set up a task force and finance mobile air‑conditioning units. KDH deputy Peter Stachura said, “Rozumieme, že minister si peniaze nevytlačí… Nemôžeme však rezignovať a postaviť nemocnice pred dilemu, či kúpiť moderné CT, alebo zabezpečiť znesiteľnú teplotu na izbách.”

Hospital officials acknowledge budget constraints and ageing infrastructure that limit the installation of permanent cooling systems. Some facilities are using portable units and fans as interim measures while the government weighs spending priorities between diagnostic equipment and climate control.