Doctors' Union Calls on President to Ensure Transparency in Ambulance Tender

Bratislava, 24 July (TASR) – The Doctors Trade Union Association (LOZ) has called on President Peter Pellegrini to oversee the transparency and professionalism of the public procurement process for ambulance service licences, TASR learnt from LOZ chair Peter Visolajsky on Thursday. In a letter addressed to the head of state, LOZ expressed concerns that the process is proceeding without sufficient information and is becoming increasingly opaque. „To date, it is not known who is on the selection committee, who is responsible for the entire process, or what criteria will be employed in the selection. The Health Ministry has so far provided only minimal understandable information on how this historic and life-critical investment for patients in acute danger will be carried out," the union explained. It emphasised that the procurement process should be as transparent, professional, and subject to public scrutiny as possible. According to LOZ, citizens should be able to see how public funds are being handled. „This level of non-transparency naturally raises concerns that this may be a pre-arranged business deal, rather than an effort to provide quality and accessible ambulance services to the public," the union warned. The association urged the President to use his authority to ensure the transparency of the procurement. According to LOZ, emergency medical services should not be subject to political deals, opaque interests, or commercial games. „You have a unique opportunity to intervene and show that you truly care about Slovak healthcare and its patients. We believe that, as a social democrat, you will do everything to ensure that this process is open, fair, and worthy of public trust," it added. The tender concerns the operation of 344 ground ambulance stations and seven helicopter emergency medical service units. mf