Slovakia's health system faces hospital hygiene dispute and financing overhaul

A dispute over hygiene at the University Hospital Bratislava has intensified after the 2022 death of a patient. The Office for Protection of Whistleblowers received a complaint alleging sepsis caused by improper hygiene practices and has filed a criminal report, while the State Health Surveillance Office and the Health Care Supervision Office said investigations found no violations and that care was provided correctly.

Separately, the General Health Insurance Company (Všeobecná zdravotná poisťovňa) has introduced a full DRG‑based payment system for 70 of Slovakia’s 91 hospitals, paying solely for performed services. The Slovak Hospital Association warns the model is a "risky experiment" that could jeopardise regional service availability, whereas VšZP argues it promotes fairer financing. The debate continues over how the new financing will affect hospital sustainability and patient access.

Key statements include VšZP’s claim: “Pre spravodlivejšie financovanie sme urobili zásadný krok …”, and the hospital association’s view: “DRG vie dobre zaplatiť výkon, ale samo osebe nevie zaplatiť dostupnosť zdravotnej starostlivosti.”