A growing number of Czechs are worried about a lack of access to quality healthcare, with 55 percent now considering it a significant risk, a 12-percentage-point increase over the past four years, according to a survey conducted by the Czech Association of Insurance Companies.
Rising costs, long waiting times, and fears of financial strain are driving these concerns, with many calling for new insurance options to address potential gaps.
The survey revealed that over 70 percent of respondents fear losing self-sufficiency in old age, a scenario they believe would lead to unmanageable expenses beyond their current savings. Many expressed interest in insurance that could help cover costs associated with loss of self-sufficiency, including securing a place in social care facilities.
“Czechs are getting older, and with that, the costs of care are expected to rise significantly,” said Jan Matoušek, the association’s executive director, as cited by Echo24. “Concerns about the availability of healthcare are therefore justified.”
The survey revealed that specific groups, such as individuals over 57 and even high school students, are particularly worried about the availability of healthcare. In situations where quality care is inaccessible, respondents are fearful of steep financial consequences.
Jana Hamanová from the SC&C research agency explained that during periods of incapacity, employees typically receive only 60 percent of their salary for the first two weeks, while self-employed individuals receive nothing. Many respondents worry they would need to turn to private care, which could drain their savings.
Currently, 42 percent of respondents said they could rely on personal savings to cover medical expenses, with those highly educated more likely to be able to. However, there is a strong interest in additional insurance products that could provide access to better medical services, reduce waiting times for surgeries, or help cover out-of-pocket expenses.
Despite this demand, such insurance options are not yet available. Matoušek noted that many Czechs already face challenges in accessing care due to long waiting periods or restrictions on services, highlighting the urgent need for solutions.
