Under the Slovak Constitution, every individual – whether a Slovak citizen or a foreigner residing in Slovakia – has the right to receive necessary health care. Everyone has the right to choose their own healthcare provider.

You should register with a general practitioner (“GP”) as soon as possible. Some general practitioners may turn down new patients, so it's best to contact several of them or ask your employer or university for recommendations.

Doctors
General practitioners and specialists have their own consultation rooms in hospitals or health centres. Upon arrival, you should consult a local doctor, who will provide you with information about the standards.

You need to make an appointment in advance. Waiting times to see specialists can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the region and specialisation.

Dentists
Every city has either a private or a public dental practice (in Slovak: "zubár", "stomatológ"). Upon arrival, you should ask for information about the dentist chosen. Please note that it's usually important to make an appointment with the dentist in advance. In emergencies, however, emergency dental care is usually available at hospitals.

Hospitals
Every university town has a hospital (in Slovak: "nemocnica" or "poliklinika") with an emergency department (in Slovak: "pohotovosť" or "urgentný príjem") and many specialised clinics.

Emergency
If you need emergency services (in Slovak: "záchranná služba"), dial "112". Ambulances are well-staffed and equipped with the life-saving equipment needed to safely transport patients to hospitals.

Hospitals provide 24-hour emergency services. A list of emergency medical care providers in Slovakia is available at (Slovak language only). Upon arrival, you may be asked to show your health insurance card. If you are not insured, you will be billed directly.

Pharmacies
You can only buy medications at pharmacies ("lekáreň"); They can be found in every city and in many villages (they are marked with a green cross). Every city must have at least one emergency pharmacy (in Slovak: "pohotovostná lekáreň") that is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – for more information, see the notice posted on the door of each pharmacy. If you need treatment at night, look for a sign that says “nočná služba” (night service). Pharmacies sell both domestic and foreign medical products.
Some medications are available only with a doctor's prescription. A list of pharmacies in Slovakia is available at (Slovak language only).
Hint: For basic medications such as pain relievers, remedies for colds, or allergy treatments, over-the-counter products are available without a prescription.