Czech health ministry clarifies which doctor fees are illegal and when charges are allowed

The Czech Ministry of Health has released a detailed methodology that enumerates prohibited and permissible fees in medical practices. Under the new rules, any fee that conditions treatment covered by public health insurance - for example, registration, priority scheduling, or sending an e-prescription - is illegal, regardless of how it is labeled. Allowed paid services must be optional, such as private dental hygiene or a paid electronic appointment system, which must be matched by a free alternative offering comparable timing.

The ministry also bans the sale of priority slots, mandatory purchase of service bundles, and charging for the presence of a companion during examinations, while a flat 90-koruna charge for emergency care remains permissible. Doctors may impose contractual penalties only with the patient’s explicit, documented consent. Patients who encounter unlawful fees are encouraged to contact the appropriate regional office.