PREVENTIVE HEALTH CARE IN RELATION TO HEALTH INSURANCE SYSTEM IN SLOVAKIA
Abstract
Introduction: Preventive measures in a field of health care are cheaper than addressing the consequences of neglected diagnosis and treatment. Aim of this study is to present the Slovak legislation and national plans in the field of preventive health care. This issue is discussed in relation to financing of health care from the health insurance.
Methods: This study was conducted by using the method of content analysis of selected legislative and non-legislative documents and statistical reports of the Slovak ministries (finance, health) and of health insurance companies.
Results: In Slovakia, universal and selective preventive health care is available for health care payers. Number of people who undergo the preventive examination differs in selected areas and the expenditure on medical treatment and addressing the consequences of neglected prevention are still high. Control plans are vague and do not cover concrete steps leading to achievement of goals presented. Access of marginalized groups of population to the preventive health care is still at very low level.
Conclusion: The system of preventive health care measures in Slovakia is relatively well-defined in legislation and supports the provision of preventive care. However, it is not enforced. There are no serious sanctions in case of neglecting patient´s obligations and people are not motivated to undergo preventive examinations. Only sanctions that in some cases work are financial. The detailed research of access of people from socially disadvantaged environment to the preventive care is desirable.
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