Health and Insurance for Foreigners

In the Czech Republic there are both state-run and private medical facilities. Most of them have contracts with insurance companies covering the costs of basic medical treatment of European Health Insurance Card holders.

First aid

In the case of sudden illness or injury, a 24-hour medical service is available in emergency departments of hospitals. If, due to illness or injury, you are unable to get to hospital yourself, call an ambulance using the telephone numbers 112 or 155. You can also use the mobile application called Rescue.

Medication

You can buy over-the-counter medication to relieve common illnesses (such as cold, flu, etc.) in pharmacies without a prescription. However, for other types of medicines, you will need a written prescription from the doctor.

Prescriptions are usually valid for 14 days, with some exceptions. If you get a prescription from the emergency services, it will be valid for only two days, and if you are prescribed antibiotics, you must pick them up within five days.

Insurance

Health insurance for foreigners is valid for citizens of the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein

In order to be able to use medical care in the Czech Republic, you must have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). In terms of treatment in our medical facilities, this proves that you are insured and that medical care will be paid for by your insurance company.

However, the insured party of one EU member country is only entitled to essential medical care within the territory of another member country according to the nature of the illness and expected length of stay. On the basis of the card, the insurance company will not pay for anything above the framework of essential care and will not even settle the excess stipulated by the local laws.

It is highly recommended to arrange additional commercial health insurance which can cover these fees before you travel.

Health insurance for foreigners from countries outside the EU

If you do not have permanent residency within the EU, you must take out a commercial insurance policy. If you do not have this, you will have to pay for all care, on the spot, and in cash.

Source: Visit Czech Republic website