Unions come out against commercialisation of healthcare

Czech medical and social services unions say they are opposed to the commercialisation of healthcare or the creation of a multi-tiered system where wealthier people could receive better treatment. The unions passed a resolution to that effect at a congress in Prague.

They have also demanded support for spa care and want the state to again issue subsidies for vouchers for spa and rehabilitation care for health and social services employees.

In addition the unions called for the government to increase the minimum wage by CZK 2,000 a month from next year and to increase public service pay by 10 percent.

Last week the Czech minister of health, Vlastimil Válek, said there should be a discussion about bringing back paid “extras” in healthcare, admitting that this would create a two-tier system.