Health Care Law at Slovenia
Slovenia's healthcare system is governed by a robust legal framework that ensures universal access to medical services through compulsory health insurance. Here's an overview of the key laws, rights, and reforms shaping healthcare in Slovenia:
🏛️ Legal Framework
Healthcare and Health Insurance Act (ZZVZZ)
Enacted in 1992, this foundational law established Slovenia's compulsory health insurance system, mandating coverage for all residents. It outlines the scope of insured services, including medical treatment, preventive care, rehabilitation, and financial benefits like sick pay and travel reimbursements.
Health Insurance Institute of Slovenia (ZZZS)
ZZZS is the central public institution responsible for administering compulsory health insurance. It collects contributions, reimburses healthcare providers, and ensures equitable access to services.
Healthcare Quality Assurance Act (2024)
Adopted in November 2024, this law focuses on enhancing healthcare quality. It mandates the establishment of the Public Agency for Quality in Healthcare, responsible for coordinating quality assurance activities and health technology assessments.
🩺 Rights Under Compulsory Health Insurance
Slovenian residents are entitled to a range of healthcare services under compulsory insurance, including: (Inclusion in the Compulsory Health Insurance - Health Insurance Institute of slovenia)
Preventive care, such as screenings and vaccinations.
Primary and specialist medical services, including dental care.
Hospital and tertiary care.
Rehabilitation and spa treatments.
Nursing and palliative care.
Ambulance transport.
Financial compensation for lost wages during illness and reimbursement for travel expenses related to medical services. (Classes of Rights under Compulsory Health Insurance - Health Insurance Institute of slovenia, The Extent of Rights Deriving from Compulsory Health Insurance - Health Insurance Institute of slovenia)
💰 Health Insurance Contributions
Slovenia's health insurance financing includes:
Compulsory Health-Care Contribution (OZP): Introduced on 1 January 2024, this flat-rate monthly contribution of €35.67 (adjusted annually) is deducted from gross salaries by employers and applies to all individuals in employment or self-employment. (SI – Compulsory Health-Care Contribution Introduced - KPMG Slovenia)
Supplementary Health Insurance: Previously voluntary, this insurance covered additional healthcare costs not included in the basic package. In 2024, it was transformed into a mandatory contribution, currently set at €35 per month, to ensure equitable access to services.
These contributions are collected by ZZZS and are essential for accessing healthcare services.
👥 Eligibility and Enrollment
All residents of Slovenia are required to register for compulsory health insurance through ZZZS. Coverage extends to family members who do not qualify as insured persons themselves. The insured individual is responsible for registering and paying the corresponding contributions. (Inclusion in the Compulsory Health Insurance - Health Insurance Institute of slovenia)
🔄 Recent Reforms
In response to rising healthcare costs and insurance premiums, Slovenia implemented significant reforms in 2024:
Mandatory Supplementary Insurance: The previously voluntary supplementary insurance was converted into a mandatory contribution to ensure financial sustainability and equitable access to healthcare services.
Contribution Adjustments: The compulsory health insurance contribution is adjusted annually on 1 March, based on the growth of the country's average gross salary, to reflect economic conditions. (SI – Compulsory Health-Care Contribution Introduced - KPMG Slovenia)
These reforms aim to modernize Slovenia's healthcare system, ensuring that all residents have access to necessary medical services while maintaining financial sustainability.
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