Guide
How pharmacies work
Prescriptions are electronic, and pharmacists handle a lot that a GP would elsewhere.
Prescriptions in Czechia are electronic. Your doctor sends the prescription to a central system and you receive an eRecept code by SMS or email — take the code to any pharmacy (lékárna).
- Many medicines that are prescription-only elsewhere are available over the counter here, and vice versa.
- Pharmacists give straightforward advice for minor problems, which saves a GP visit.
- Larger hospitals run a 24-hour pharmacy; other pharmacies operate a rota out of hours.
- Insurance covers part of the cost of many medicines; you pay the rest.
Related
Last checked: 1 August 2026
Practical guidance for orientation, not legal advice. Last checked 1 August 2026.