Slovak doctors could face prison for refusing to work

In response to mass resignations by healthcare workers, the Slovak Government has approved an amendment to the Civil Protection Act that would obligate healthcare professionals to provide medical care under specific circumstances. If the amendment is also approved by Parliament, doctors could face up to one year in prison for refusing to work during an "extraordinary situation." The amendment introduces a new definition of such situations, adding the concept of a "critical healthcare shortage" to the existing list.

This measure, however, will apply only to specific districts rather than nationwide, as was the case during the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, the government has identified 12 districts where doctors' resignations pose the greatest threat to healthcare services.

The proposal has sparked widespread criticism from both opposition parties and medical professionals. Peter Visolajský, the head of the doctors' union, condemned the bill, describing it as an attempt to impose forced labor. Similarly, the opposition SaS has criticized the measure, labeling it a “hostage law.”

Parliament is expected to vote on the amendment through a fast-track legislative procedure, although the exact date for the vote has not yet been announced.

Source: STVR, Denník N, TASR