Diagnostic Imaging in Czech Republic

Diagnostic imaging, also known as medical imaging, describes a variety of techniques to look inside the body to diagnose the cause of an injury or illness, as well as to find any signs of a health condition. It is also used to see how well your body responds to treatment for an illness or fracture. 

Many diagnostic imaging tests are noninvasive and painless. Some tests use a small amount of radiation exposure. Some require you to remain still inside a machine for a long time, which may cause little discomfort. 

Other diagnostic tests involve the insertion of a small camera attached to a thin, long tube (often referred to as a “scope”) into your body. These types of diagnostic tests are invasive and require anesthesia.

Some of the most common types of diagnostic imaging tests are as follows:

• X-ray is among the most well-known diagnostic imaging tests. It generates images that allow your doctor to see if there is any damage or injury to the bones.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan, also known as “cat scan,” is a test that combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles. It is often used to quickly examine people who could have internal injuries. It can help doctors evaluate the brain, spine, abdomen, chest, and neck.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnet to obtain an image of the body instead of radiation. It is most commonly used to examine spinal cord and brain anomalies, joint abnormalities, and tumors.
• Ultrasound, also known as sonography, uses high-frequency waves to create images of the inside of the body. It is most commonly used to examine a fetus during pregnancy. However, it can also be used to examine a wide range of body parts, including the heart, joints, and bladder.
• Mammography is a type of x-ray image of the breast. It can be used to check for early breast cancer signs that cannot be felt through the use of a low-dose x-ray.
• A diagnostic biopsy is the main method doctors use to diagnose most types of cancer. It involves the removal of a piece of tissue or cell sample to be analyzed in a laboratory.

• Endoscopy, laparoscopy, and colposcopy involve the insertion of a thin, flexible scope with a video camera attached to its end through a passageway or bodily opening to look at the inside of a particular organ, such as the colon or the lungs.

How Long Should I Stay in Czech Republic?

You can usually leave the hospital straight away after diagnostic imaging tests. However, it is advisable that you stay in Czech Republic for 5 to 7 days to wait for the results. Once the results are ready, you will have to attend a follow-up appointment where your doctor explains the results and discuss the treatment plan, if needed.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

Most diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound and CT scan, do not require any recovery time. However, you may need to take one or two days off work and avoid strenuous activities for several days after some types of diagnostic biopsy, endoscopy, laparoscopy, and colposcopy.

What Aftercare is Required?

There is usually no special aftercare or restrictions after diagnostic imaging tests. You may be advised to drink plenty of water immediately after, especially if contrast was used. If the procedure is invasive, your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to care for the wounds. 

What's the Success Rate?

Diagnostic imaging tests have high success and accuracy rates. The continuous improvement and advancement of diagnostic imaging technology have transformed healthcare, allowing for earlier diagnosis of many medical conditions, reduces the need for invasive processes. The side effects of diagnostic imaging tests are very minimal, such as slight discomfort, pain, swelling, and bruising.

Are there Alternatives?

There are no alternatives to diagnostic imaging. It is vital for the diagnosis of medical conditions, allowing your doctor to decide the best treatment or management plan.

Diagnostic Imaging in and around Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is a landlocked country in Central Europe and it has a rich and eventful history, as well as amazing attractions. From medieval towns and magnificent castles to picturesque national parks and relaxing spa resorts, it has a lot to offer. The country also boasts top-quality healthcare and is emerging as a popular medical tourism destination. Medical procedures in the country are performed with the latest technology and techniques. The medical professionals are highly qualified, well trained, and internationally recognized. Besides, the cost of medical procedures in the country is extremely competitive. Medical tourists can make significant savings compared to most other countries in Europe. Cosmetic surgery is particularly popular among international medical tourists.

Popular Parts of Czech Republic

Prague is the capital and is popular for its fine dining, eccentric nightlife, and wonderfully preserved medieval buildings with Gothic architecture, such as Prague Castle, the 14th-century Charles Bridge, and the Astronomical Clock. Along with Prague, Ceský Krumlov and Brno are frequently visited by tourists as well.

Weather and Climate in the Czech Republic

Due to its location, the Czech Republic has a mostly temperate climate. Extreme weather is rare, but the summers can get hot and the winters cold. Summer starts in June and the days can be scorching hot. The average temperature is around 26°C, but in recent years, it tends to rise to 37°C. Winter, from November to March, can get rather cold. The average temperatures drop to around 2°C during the day and -2°C at night, with some snowfall and rain. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September – October) have beautiful weather.

Getting around in the Czech Republic

Václav Havel Airport Prague is the main airport where international visitors fly into and out of the Czech Republic. It serves numerous flights to many cities around Europe and Asia, including London, Moscow, Dubai, and Seoul. The Czech Republic has an affordable and reliable public transport system. Domestic flights are available, but rarely necessary. The rail network is affordable and very comprehensive, covering almost every city and town in the county. The bus also has extensive coverage throughout the country. Public transport within cities is also excellent. In major cities, you can opt for the metro, tram, bus, or trolleybuses. Taxis are widely available and are metered, but the fares are higher at night.

Tourist Visas in the Czech Republic

Nationals of all EU countries do not need a visa to visit and stay in the Czech Republic. The country is a part of the Schengen area, which means citizens of around 62 countries can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. These visa-exempt countries include Australia, Canada, the US, and South Korea. Citizens of other countries are required to apply for a visa before visiting the country. Those who want to receive medical care should obtain a Czech Republic Visa for Medical Purposes.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: Czech Koruna/Czech Crown (CZK) is the currency of the Czech Republic. 1 USD is equivalent to 22.98 CZK. Note that the euro is not widely accepted in the country.​​​​​​
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are widespread around the Czech Republic. Major credit cards, such as MasterCard and Visa, are accepted for many types of transactions, but you may need to pay in cash for smaller amounts. Tipping is expected, especially in restaurants. Tip at least 10% of the bill.
3. Local Language: The official and most commonly spoken language is Czech, but Slovak is widely spoken as well. Many people, particularly in major cities, can speak English and German.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Most of the population is religiously unaffiliated and does not believe in God. However, Christianity is the largest religion. Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Paganism are also practiced by a small percentage of the population.
5. Public holidays: New Year’s Day, Easter Monday, Liberation Day, Sts Cyril & Methodius Day, Jan Hus Day, Republic Day, and Czech Statehood Day are some of the most important public holidays in the Czech Republic.