Government funding cuts are due to drive a series of healthcare reforms in the Czech Republic this year. Recent plans have included calls for hospitals and doctors to prescribe rationally and offer less specialist care.

The Health Ministry has also launched a campaign to boost awareness of healthier lifestyles. Further, the public will receive incentives for agreeing to regular check-ups, such as lower health insurance premiums and free spa treatment.

Meanwhile, some industry sources are calling for a reimbursement model that provides fixed subsidies for specific treatments. Similar flat-sum systems are used in a number of new European Union (EU) states, bringing reported advantages such as greater economic efficiency and transparency.

The government may also consider using private insurance or co-insurance schemes to supplement the state system. However, such measures are unlikely in the short term, as officials oppose any "privatisation" of the health sector, in line with public sentiments. Over 75% of Czech citizens oppose direct charges for drugs and medicines, according to a recent survey.