Changes coming to Budapest’s primary care on-call system: Key details you need to know

According to the Ministry of Interior’s State Secretary for Health, the new primary care on-call system set to launch in Budapest on 1 October will offer improved patient services.

Significant changes to Budapest’s on-call system

According to Portfolio, at a press conference in Budapest on Friday, Péter Takács explained that the new system, managed by the National Ambulance Service (OMSZ), will feature 28 adult and three pediatric care centres across 15 locations, with the support of 14 mobile units. The new structure will coordinate primary care, emergency medical services, and hospital emergency departments, ensuring better collaboration.

Takács emphasised that for life-threatening emergencies, residents should still call the 112 emergency number. However, for non-urgent issues after 4 PM, on weekends, and public holidays, people should use the already familiar 1830 hotline.

Major changes coming to Budapest’s primary care on-call system in October. Photo: depositphotos.com

This system mirrors the one already implemented in rural areas: calls will be answered by healthcare professionals who will assess the patient’s condition and either refer them to a primary care on-call centre or dispatch a mobile unit. In cases of urgent need, an ambulance will be sent.

Takács noted that Budapest presents a unique challenge in terms of healthcare organisation, so the new system is being introduced with some flexibility. Consultations were held with general practitioners, the medical chamber, and other professional organisations to ensure the best possible adaptation for the capital.

Separate on-call services for adults and children

He also outlined that the new system will have separate on-call services for adults and children, with three pediatric centres in the city, supported by a mobile unit. Additionally, there will be two daytime care points. Takács expressed hope that this new, more flexible system would overcome the challenges and inefficiencies of the current one.

The state secretary reassured that there is no government intention to change the working hours of general practitioners, which typically run from 8 AM to 12 PM, and from 4 PM to 8 PM, in Budapest.

OMSZ Director General Gábor Csató added that under the new system, patients won’t need to search for the right care themselves.

Instead, they will call the 1830 number, and a specialist will determine the necessary level of care.

Photo: depositphotos.com

National data shows that 93% of patients seeking on-call care only have minor or easily treatable complaints.

Csató also mentioned that 261 general practitioners have signed up to work within the OMSZ on-call system, and hospital doctors will also be available. Recruitment is ongoing, but all necessary resources and personnel are in place for the 1 October launch.

He further clarified that patients will not be treated based on their address, and there will be specialist consultations available for on-call doctors. OMSZ spokesperson Pál Győrfi added that every possible communication channel will be used to inform the public.

The OMSZ website will provide continuously updated information, the LifeSaver app will send push notifications, and on-call centres will be highlighted in route planning apps. Information will also be shared through local newspapers and TV channels.

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Featured image: depositphotos.com