In the South Bohemia region, more than 14,000 patients have sought virtual medical assistance since the introduction of the online emergency service a year ago – mainly for respiratory and skin conditions. In the Karlovy Vary region, the service has been available since March, with other regions such as Pilsen and Prague expected to follow soon.
The option to connect virtually with a doctor in an emergency, instead of visiting the surgery in person, has already been used by more than 14,000 people in the South Bohemia region (Jihočeský kraj) in the first year since the service was launched in August 2024. Patients most frequently sought advice for symptoms of respiratory illnesses as well as rashes and eczema.
Since March, this free online emergency service has also been available in the Karlovy Vary region (Karlovarský kraj), with the Pilsen region expected to join in the autumn. Prague is also planning to introduce a similar service.
According to statistics from the South Bohemia region, over 14,000 people have contacted the online doctor so far, including more than 4,600 cases involving children. Respiratory symptoms were the most common reason for consultations, particularly during the colder months. In addition, various skin problems, such as rashes and eczema, were among the frequent concerns of patients.
Hana Brožková, spokeswoman for the region, told broadcaster ČT that patients can contact doctors in various ways – via telephone, video call or chat. Even without in-person contact, doctors are able to make diagnoses based on video recordings or photos. They can then issue electronic prescriptions. Over 4,000 prescriptions have been issued this way within a year.
Virtual Emergency Consultation Also in Western Czechia
In the Karlovy Vary region, the online emergency service has been available since March this year. Doctors there have already provided advice in 3,600 cases, and more than 18,000 residents have registered for the application so far.
In the Pilsen region (Plzeňský kraj), the service is planned to be offered free of charge later this autumn. The district is currently preparing a tender for a service provider. Prague is also planning a similar online consultation in cooperation with the emergency medical service. A tender for a provider is currently being prepared in the capital as well.
