Slovak and Czech rescuers will be able to intervene faster on both sides of the border, more coordinated and without unnecessary administration. Framework Agreement on cross-border cooperation signed today (4 July 2025) in Prague by Minister of Health Kamil Šaško and Minister of Health of the Czech Republic Vlastimil Válek, will simplify not only the rescue of people in border areas, but also allow rapid transfer of patients through the territory of the neighbouring state.
The emergency service must be prepared to help anyone, anywhere and as quickly as possible, regardless of the common border. With this Treaty, we remove unnecessary administrative obstacles and strengthen the most important: the ability of rescue workers to get to the patient in time and effectively. Cross-border cooperation thus provides a solid legal framework, but in particular a real sense for people at risk of life, said Minister of Health Kamil Šaško.
The rescue forces of one State will be able to intervene in the territory of the other in cases where sufficient capacity is not available on the domestic side of the border. After a new one, it will also be possible to use as quickly as possible routes through the territory of the neighbouring state when transferring the patient. Until now, such a transfer has not been possible due to legislative restrictions on the use of alarm signals.
The contract concerns specific border regions, on the Slovak side of Bratislava, Trnavský, Trenčianske and Žilina region, on the Czech side of the South Moravský, Zlínský and Moravian-Silesian region. It shall be concluded for an indefinite period and shall enter into force upon completion of the ratification process in both countries.
This Treaty demonstrates the trust and responsibility of both countries towards their citizens. In acute cases, when every minute is decided, the state border shall not be an obstacle. Thanks to this agreement, we will be able to intervene faster and more efficiently where aid is most needed, stressed the Minister of Health of the Czech Republic Vlastimil Válek.
In the field of emergency health services, the Slovak Republic is in the process of establishing similar cross-border cooperation with Austria and Hungary.
