In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Czech citizens are showing a notable shift towards preventive healthcare, marking a significant trend in public health. Data from General Health Insurance Company of the Czech Republic (VZP) reveals a remarkable 73% increase in claims for voluntary vaccinations and a 25% rise in expenditure on preventive measures compared to the previous year.
VZP Director Zdeněk Kabátek reported that the increase in preventive healthcare activities is more than a temporary fluctuation. “We are witnessing a genuine trend towards more responsible health behavior. The pace of adopting preventive care has accelerated since the end of the pandemic,” Kabátek noted.
Surge in Preventive Screenings
Preventive check-ups, including visits to general practitioners, have increased by 11% from last year, and by 20% compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Pediatric and gynecological consultations have also seen a rise. Participation in screening programs has surged nearly 17% year-over-year, reflecting a significant change in public attitude towards health.
Kabátek highlighted a 30% growth in screening program participation this year compared to last, indicating a substantial shift in client behavior.
Economic Impact of Increased Preventive Care
Jan Bodnár, Deputy Director of VZP for healthcare, emphasized the financial implications of this trend. The costs for preventive measures have risen from CZK 7.2 billion (€295 million) in 2023 to CZK 9 billion (€350 million) this year. However, Bodnár views this as an investment rather than a burden. “The Czech Republic’s disease detection system is among the best globally, and increasing participation is a positive development,” he stated.
Expansion of Screening Programs
The Czech health ministry and VZP have expanded their screening initiatives, including new programs for osteoporosis and prostate cancer detection. The osteoporosis screening program, launched last year, has engaged nearly 300,000 clients, a significant increase from 94,000 the previous year.
Additionally, a lung cancer screening program for smokers and ex-smokers aged 55 to 74, introduced in 2022, saw a 67% rise in participation this year, with over 11,800 individuals undergoing screening.
Incentives Boost Participation
To further encourage preventive behaviors, VZP has linked benefit programs to preventive check-ups. “Attractive contributions tied to meeting preventive conditions have proven effective. Uptake of conditioned benefits is growing significantly,” said Ivan Duškov, Deputy Director of VZP for Client Services.
Notably, claims for voluntary vaccinations have increased by 73% year-over-year, with significant rises in demand for vaccines such as whooping cough and tick-borne encephalitis.
Government and Public Health Strategies
The shift towards preventive care aligns with broader public health strategies initiated by the Czech Health Ministry. The pandemic has underscored the importance of early detection and preventive measures. “Prevention is not just about improving system efficiency but providing tangible benefits to individuals,” Kabátek remarked.
Czech Health Minister Vlastimil Válek (TOP 09, EPP) views prevention as crucial for maintaining the sustainability of the healthcare system. “Increasing prevention and public health is essential. This requires support from the ministry, government, and business sector,” Válek stated.
Válek advocates for a pan-European prevention program with clear objectives and funding to further enhance preventive care across the region.
Future Plans
While the positive trends are encouraging, VZP acknowledges the need for ongoing efforts. “We need to address gaps in preventive care, particularly among older populations who are more focused on curative rather than preventive care,” Bodnár noted. To address these challenges, VZP plans to introduce annual campaigns to promote the importance of preventive examinations.
This increased emphasis on preventive healthcare not only reflects a shift in public attitudes but also underscores a commitment to long-term health and financial sustainability for the Czech healthcare system.