How to register with a GP (praktický lékař) in Czechia: your rights, refusals and what to do

Updated: 13 November 2026

In Czechia the general practitioner — praktický lékař — is the front door to healthcare: they issue prescriptions, sick notes, referrals to specialists and medical certificates. Without registration many things get harder. Here is how to register and what to do if no one accepts you.

How registration works

1. Find a doctor who has a contract with your insurer (insurers have a search tool on their website).
2. Call or visit with your insurance card and ask whether they accept new patients.
3. The doctor fills in the registrační list, you sign it and get a copy.
4. The doctor reports the registration to your insurer.

You do not need any other forms or applications — a valid insurance card is enough.

When a doctor may refuse

• accepting a new patient would exceed a reasonable workload, or staffing, technical or organisational reasons prevent it;
• for a GP, paediatrician or home visits — if the distance from your home makes care impossible;
• the doctor has no contract with your insurer.

Refusal for other reasons (for example, nationality) is unlawful; a doctor who wrongly refuses a patient can be fined.

What to do if no one accepts you

• Look for other doctors via your insurer’s search tool.
• Contact your insurer (VZP: 952 222 222) — it will help you find a doctor.
• With commercial insurance for foreigners — register with your insurer’s partner doctors; the insurer has the list.

Changing doctor

You have the right to choose any doctor who has a contract with your insurer. You can change your registration with the same type of doctor no sooner than 3 months later; a new registration automatically cancels the previous one.

Sources

• VZP ČR — choosing a healthcare provider (as of 1.1.2026)
• VZP ČR — registration form

This article is for general information only and is not legal or tax advice. Check the current rules before making a decision, or contact us.