Guide to Prague Hospitals & Emergency Services | Prague.org (2024)

Table of contentsShow

Prague hospitals are the backbone of the city’s healthcare system; they provide excellent treatment, a full range of services, and an emphasis on the individual needs of their patients. This piece takes a look at the Prague hospitals, analyzing their services, level of care, and the experience of patients.

The Czech capital has a long and illustrious tradition of healthcare. Many of the city’s hospitals have been vital in the health of its citizens for generations.

From the Middle Ages, Prague had hospitals for the sick and injured. The capital’s oldest hospital, St. Apollinaire, was founded by King Charles IV in the thirteenth century.

Other than these historic institutions, Prague has many specialist medical facilities for a variety of needs. From mental health facilities to pediatric hospitals, Prague’s healthcare system protects people.

If they need medical care in Prague, visitors may relax. Modern technology and trained medical staff in the municipality’s hospitals ensure the best patient care.

Healthcare system in the Czech Republic – What to keep in mind

With some familiarity with its essential features and considerations, the Czech Republic’s healthcare system can be easy to navigate. It is crucial to keep in mind the following details:

  • All Czech citizens and legal residents are covered by the healthcare system.
  • Everyone must have health insurance, usually through payroll tax-funded public health insurance.
  • Most non-emergency healthcare begins with a general practitioner (GP) or family doctor (FD). GP/FD registration is required for specialized care.
  • Primary care providers refer patients to specialists. Hospitals and outpatient clinics offer specialized appointments.
  • The Czech Republic has many hospitals and emergency care services. Dial 112 for EMS
  • Prescription drugs are offered at pharmacies. Some work 24/7.
  • Czech is the official language, but many healthcare workers speak English, especially in cities and tourist destinations.
  • Public insurance covers basic healthcare, although drugs and procedures may cost extra. Extra costs can be covered by private insurance.
  • To minimize excessive waits and avoidable emergency room visits, patients should consult primary care physicians for non-emergency healthcare needs.

What to do in case of emergency – emergency hospital services in Prague

Quick access to medical care is essential in the event of an emergency in Prague. Follow these steps to get to the hospital quickly:

Step 1: Dial Emergency Services

To reach emergency services, dial 112. This number is universally used in the event of a medical emergency that requires immediate assistance. You can reach emergency hospital services in Prague, including ambulances, at any time of day or night by dialing this number.

Step 2: Explain the situation

While contacting emergency services, it is important to be ready to explain the situation by providing specifics such as the type of emergency, your location, and any other pertinent information. Remain composed and adhere to the directions given by the dispatcher.

Step 3: Wait for assistance

While you wait, know that Prague’s emergency medical services (EMS) are fast and reliable. While waiting for assistance to come, remain at the patient’s side and offer any help that may be required.

Step 4: Transfer to hospital

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will transfer the patient to the closest hospital that is prepared to treat their condition, based on the gravity of the issue. Emergency rooms in Prague’s hospitals can treat patients in critical condition right away.

In addition, several public hospitals in Prague offer round-the-clock emergency services.

Prague hospitals offering English-speaking services

Several Prague hospitals and medical facilities serve international visitors and residents in English. The following are the best hospitals in Prague offering English-speaking services:

General university hospital in Prague

As one of Prague’s main hospitals, General University Hospital provides several medical services.

Many doctors and nurses in this Prague hospital speak English, helping overseas patients.

Na Homolce hospital

Modern facilities and high-quality care distinguish Na Homolce Hospital.

International patients can get medical advice from English-speaking hospital staff.

Canadian medical care

Prague’s private Canadian Medical Care treats English-speaking patients.

The clinic provides general practice, specialized consultations, diagnostic tests, and vaccines.

Motol university hospital

Motol University Hospital, among Prague’s largest, provides comprehensive medical services.

In departments that see international patients, some staff may know English, even if Czech is the main language.

Prague Medical Institute:

Prague Medical Institute is a private, English-speaking medical facility for overseas patients.

The institute provides consultations, tests, procedures, and wellness programs.

The military hospital Prague: Specialized medical care

A world-renowned healthcare facility, the Military Hospital Prague (Vojenská nemocnice Praha in Czech) treats active-duty and former service members as well as civilians who have sustained injuries or illnesses. Situated in Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, this hospital is an essential provider of comprehensive healthcare services, especially in the fields of rehabilitation, trauma care, and military medicine. A brief rundown of the specialist medical services provided by the Military Prague Hospital is as follows:

1. Military medicine

2. Emergency medicine and trauma care

3. Rehabilitation and orthopedics

4. Surgical procedure

5. Diagnostic and imaging services

6. Specialized clinics and departments

Guide to Prague Hospitals & Emergency Services | Prague.org (2024)

FAQs

Which hospital is best for foreigners in Prague? ›

If you are an expat living in Prague (or closeby) it is good to know that the Hospital Na Homolce and Motol Hospital are the most expatriate-friendly.

How much is an ambulance in Prague? ›

Also speak with your doctor about emergency care procedures. Medical condition is critical, CALL an AMBULANCE on 112 (English) or 155 (Czech): Ambulance will arrive approximately 10 – 15 minutes. Cost of ambulance is approximately 2500-4000czk, be prepared to pay immediately.

Does Prague have good medical care? ›

The healthcare system of the Czech Republic is modern and developed and has over 25,000 hospitals, clinics, and private medical practitioners. Czech Republic's standard of healthcare is one of the best in the European Union (EU), know more about the Czech Healthcare System Information.

How many hospitals are in Prague? ›

According to Statista, there are 258 hospitals total in the Czech Republic. Prague has six major hospitals and close to twenty smaller hospitals as well as a number of clinics that specialize in scientific and technical work.

Where do American expats live in Prague? ›

Apart from the city center, one of the most popular districts with expats is Prague 2, especially the Vinohrady quarter. It is directly adjacent to the center, yet greener and a lot quieter. There are lots of spacious apartments in old-fashioned buildings with high, vaulted ceilings.

Is healthcare free in Czech Republic for foreigners? ›

Non-EU citizens who are not working or self-employed in the Czech Republic, but have permanent residence in the country, are also compulsorily insured under the public health insurance scheme. They have to register with the health insurance company and pay monthly contributions based on the minimum wage.

What to do if you get sick in Prague? ›

Emergency Care
  1. Life-threatening emergencies in Prague and Brno should be dealt with by calling Záchranná Služba (“emergency services”) by dialing 112 and specifying that a physician is needed. ...
  2. Ambulance: 155 or +420 267 313 333.
  3. 24-Hour emergency rooms are located at the following:
  4. Motol Hospital.

What medications are not allowed in Czech Republic? ›

Prohibited medicines include counterfeit medicines or prohibited doping substances such as testosterone or nandrolone. Intoxicating substances such as morphine may only be imported on medical prescription and with a special certificate issued by the attending physician (in a dose for a maximum of 30 days).

What is 911 in the Czech Republic? ›

112 is one of the emergency numbers in the Czech Republic. The average time to answer a 112 call is 5 seconds. 112 calls can be answered not only in Czech, but also in English, German, Polish, Russian and French with the help of a translating software.

How much does a doctor visit cost in Czech Republic? ›

In general, the cost of a consultation with a general practitioner varies between CZK 500 and CZK 800, while a visit to a specialist can cost between CZK 800 and CZK 1,500.

Is Prague drug friendly? ›

Prague's liberal laws and liberal policies mean that the city has earned a reputation of being weed-friendly. It is estimated that nearly half-million marijuana users are largely ignored by the authorities and tolerated by almost everyone.

How to get antibiotics in Prague? ›

Yes, you need a prescription. Go and see a pharmacist first, in "Lekarna" (Pharmacy), you may not need antibiotics, and in any case, the doctor at the foreigners clinic may not prescribe antibiotics anyway.

What is the biggest organ in Prague? ›

The first thing which catches visitors' eye is the Baroque organ case build by Abraham Stark of Loket at the western organ-loft. It is the instrument – the largest organ not only in Prague but also in the whole of the Czech Republic – which brings the amazing fame to the Basilica.

How many Americans are in Prague? ›

In Prague, there is more than 51 thousand Ukrainians. They are followed by 24 thousand Russians, 13 thousand Vietnamese, and over 6 thousand US citizens.

Does Prague have a homeless problem? ›

Prague City Council estimates that there are approximately 5.000 homeless people in Prague, the majority are men. The main causes of homelessness stem from a combination of several factors such as unemployment, lack of finances, drug or alcohol addiction and mental health issues.

What is the largest hospital in Prague? ›

Motol University Hospital in Prague is the largest health care facility in the Czech Republic. It provides full scale of medical services and represents the teaching and research basis for the 2nd Faculty of Medicine of Charles University in Prague.

Which European country has the best healthcare for expats? ›

Germany Is The Best European Country For Expat Healthcare

In second place is Germany, earning a digital nomad score of 7.40/10. There were over 12,200 Google searches for “Germany digital nomad visa” within the last year.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Neely Ledner

Last Updated:

Views: 6123

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (42 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Neely Ledner

Birthday: 1998-06-09

Address: 443 Barrows Terrace, New Jodyberg, CO 57462-5329

Phone: +2433516856029

Job: Central Legal Facilitator

Hobby: Backpacking, Jogging, Magic, Driving, Macrame, Embroidery, Foraging

Introduction: My name is Neely Ledner, I am a bright, determined, beautiful, adventurous, adventurous, spotless, calm person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.