The Ministry of Health is carrying out a number of steps that lead to changes in the payment of dietetic foods for celiacs. After discussions with both patient representatives and medical experts, it comes up with a consensual proposal for all parties.
From 1 October 2024 a new categorisation of dietetic foods shall apply. Among other things, it divides gluten-free foods into two sub-groups of food and raw materials. We believe that this change has both simplified the choice method and provided a higher quality for the patient. However, it also brought about a change in the redistribution of the quantitative limit. The health insurance company currently pays 10 kg of dietary raw materials and about 1.9 kg of food.
Following further discussions between the health sector and representatives of Celiac organisations as well as the Slovak gastroenterological company, a solution was found with which all stakeholders agreed. Our common objective is to promote maximum simplification of the payment system and to improve the availability of gluten-free foods for all age groups of celiacs.
Following the discussion, the Ministry of Health comes up with a redistributive adjustment. This is currently in the process of solving Kategorizačnou commission MZ SR. Representatives of celiacs and the Slovak gastroenterological society agree with the modified proposal. We will inform about the details after the implementation of all approval processes. A new redistribution of the Celiac food cost ratio will be valid from 1 January 2025.
The Ministry of Health always ensures that the healthcare provided is primarily safe and accessible. The classification takes into account the impacts on public health insurance resources and patients' needs.