The emergency medical service point in Valka will be closed starting tomorrow, June 20.
In acute conditions where there is a threat to health or life, assistance can be obtained at the emergency department of Valga Hospital (Estonia) by presenting the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). In this case, the patient's co-payment will be calculated according to Estonian rates.
The National Health Service (NHS) also advises seeking medical assistance from Latvian family doctors. Additionally, one can call the Republican Emergency Medical Service.
Regarding treatment in Estonia, Valga Hospital provides assistance even to those without an EHIC card. However, in such cases, payment for the services received may be required. If emergency medical assistance was provided, reimbursement of expenses can be requested from the NHS in accordance with the established legal procedure.
At the Estonian Valga Hospital, a mandatory co-payment from the patient is required regardless of the presence of an EHIC card. For adults, it amounts to 20 euros, while for children under 18 and pensioners, it is 5 euros.
If the specialists at Valga Hospital determine that the patient requires further examination, treatment, or specialized assistance that is not available in Valga, their repatriation to their home country – to Vidzeme Hospital – will be organized.
It should be noted that two weeks ago, Vidzeme Hospital announced that it would close the emergency medical service point in Valka at Rujienas Street, 3, starting June 20. The reasons cited were the retirement of the chief duty doctor, staff shortages, and the inability to ensure the continued operation of the point.
