Slovakia plans major reforms in state hospitals after audits revealed inefficiencies in staffing, operations and procurement, said Health Minister Kamil Šaško (Hlas-SD). The review identified issues such as overstaffing, underused operating rooms and potential savings in drug and equipment purchases, though some hospital directors questioned the methodology. The ministry outlined eight measures, including centralised procurement, electronic attendance systems and stricter evaluation of investments. It also plans to optimise bed capacity and increase the use of operating rooms and diagnostic equipment.
Loss-making hospitals will be required to submit recovery plans, with forced administration as a last resort. President Peter Pellegrini called for cross-party agreement, warning that frequent policy changes weaken the healthcare system. Despite being 4 times Prime Minister Robert Fico described the findings as “shocking” and said broader financing solutions, including external funding, may be needed.
Source: TASR, STVR
