The Health Care and Health Insurance Act (Zakon o zdravstvenem varstvu in zdravstvenem zavarovanju, ZZVZZ) of Slovenia was originally published on February 12, 1992, and came into effect on March 1, 1992, with certain sections (98 and 108) becoming effective immediately upon publication.
Since its enactment, the Act has undergone several amendments to address evolving healthcare needs and policy reforms. Notable changes include:
- 2005 Amendment: On August 12, 2005, an amendment was introduced to restructure complementary health insurance, aiming to enhance regulation and oversight of insurance companies.
- 2022 Amendment: Effective March 1, 2022, the Act was amended to reduce the period during which employers are responsible for covering employees’ sick leave from 30 to 20 working days per individual absence, and from 120 to 80 days annually.
- 2023 Amendment: On July 6, 2023, the Slovenian Parliament passed a significant reform transforming supplementary health insurance into a mandatory contribution, set to take effect on January 1, 2024. This change abolished the existing supplementary health insurance system, integrating it into the compulsory health insurance framework.
Key Concepts of the Act:
- The Act regulates the organization and operation of Slovenia’s healthcare and health insurance systems, ensuring access to medical services for all citizens.
- It specifies the roles of various stakeholders, including government bodies and healthcare institutions, in maintaining and promoting public health.
- The Act addresses provisions for healthcare delivery under exceptional conditions, such as emergencies or public health crises.
The ZZVZZ is a comprehensive legislative document that aims to provide universal health coverage to Slovenian citizens. By defining the structure of the healthcare system and the roles of various stakeholders, it ensures a coordinated approach to public health. The inclusion of provisions for special circumstances indicates foresight in managing potential health crises, ensuring that the system remains resilient and responsive.
