How to register with a GP

A general practitioner (GP — praktický lékař) is your gateway to the system. Without one you usually can't access specialists with full insurance coverage, get prescriptions for chronic medication, or be issued sick leave. Registration is free and typically takes one visit.

What your GP handles

• Preventive check-ups (every 2 years, covered by insurance)
• Prescriptions for chronic medications
• Referrals to specialists (žádanka)
• Vaccinations (flu, tetanus, travel)
• Sick leave (eNeschopenka)
• Medical certificates (driving licence, weapons permit, sports)
• Acute issues — flu, infections, pain

What you need to register

• Valid insurance card
• ID card or passport
• Foreigners: proof of insurance (KZPC or employment-based)
• Contact details (phone, email, address)
• Brief medical history — chronic conditions, allergies, long-term medication
• If switching: name and contact of previous GP (the new office will request your records)

Step-by-step process

• 1. Find a GP accepting new patients — often the hardest part (see below)
• 2. Book the first visit by phone or email (typically 2–6 weeks ahead)
• 3. At the visit you fill in a registration form and detailed health questionnaire
• 4. The doctor performs an intake exam — blood pressure, ECG, blood and urine tests, anamnesis
• 5. You sign the registration agreement — from that moment you are officially registered
• 6. The doctor requests your records from your previous GP (you don't need to do anything)

How to find a GP who is accepting

In Prague and other large cities there is a shortage of GPs and many practices are "closed". Things to try:

• Insurer's search tool — VZP, OZP and others have online maps of contracted doctors with availability
• Ministry of Health portal: nzip.cz or mzcr.cz/registry
• Your insurer is legally obliged to provide a GP within reasonable distance — if you can't find one, contact them directly
• Private clinics are usually more accessible (but check if they have a contract with your insurer)
• Recommendations from colleagues, neighbours, expat Facebook groups
• We can do it for you — find a GP, verify availability, and book the appointment

Registering children — paediatrician

Children up to 19 register with a paediatrician (PLDD). The process is the same, only the legal guardian signs the forms. Bring the child's health record, vaccination booklet and insurance card.

Switching GP

You can change GP once every 3 months. Simply register with a new one — they will request the records from your previous doctor. You don't need to notify or unregister from the old GP.

For expats — English-speaking GPs

Prague has several English-speaking GPs and clinics catering to foreigners (e.g. Canadian Medical, EUC Premium, Unicare, Health Centre Prague, GP Practice Vinohrady). They tend to have shorter waiting times, but not all have contracts with every insurer. With KZPC insurance, coverage is more limited — always verify in advance. We're happy to find a GP based on language, location, insurer and specialisation.

After registration — what next

• Attend preventive check-ups every 2 years (free — don't skip)
• Repeat prescriptions can often be ordered by email or app
• Always get a referral (žádanka) before going to a specialist — saves time and money
• Notify your GP whenever you change insurer