Concession

Concessionary dentistry in Slovenia means that a private dentist has a contract with the Health Insurance Institute of Slovenia (ZZZS) to provide certain dental services. Patients with a valid ZZZS card can visit a concessionary dental clinic and exercise all the rights regarding dental care that they are entitled to in public healthcare.

What does this mean for patients?

• Partial or full coverage of costs: ZZZS covers part or all of the costs for certain dental services performed by a dentist with a concession. This means that the patient does not pay the full price of the service, but only a certain share (co-payment) determined by ZZZS. The patient is entitled to “free” (at the expense of ZZZS) services at the concessionaire, the same as if they were performed at a health center (ZD). For example, there may be free tooth extractions, dentures, emergencies, certain fillings, dental treatment, and more.

• Choice of dentist: The patient has the right to freely choose a dentist with a concession. This means that they can choose the dentist who suits them best. At that time, the patient's file is with the concessionaire and in case of emergencies, they can visit the concession clinic during working hours or the ZD and other concessionaires according to the duty schedule in the concession clinic's area of operation.

• Waiting times: Waiting times may occur for dentists with a concession, as they have a limited number of services that they can perform under the concession at the expense of the ZZZS.

Advantages of concession dentistry:

• Affordability: Dental services are more affordable due to the fact that part of the costs are covered by the ZZZS.

• Comprehensive care: Licensed dentists can offer comprehensive care, even when services are not covered by the ZZZS, because they can provide self-pay services outside the operating hours of the licensed clinic. This means for patients that they can get everything done in one place.

• Quality care: Licensed dentists must meet certain quality standards.

Disadvantages of franchise dentistry:

• Waiting times: Waiting times may occur for certain services.

• Limited scope of services: The concession or contract with the ZZZS does not cover all dental services.

• Additional charges: Some services require an additional charge, similar to dental services in a health center.

It is important to know:

• Each licensed dentist has a contract with the Slovenian Health Insurance Institute (ZZZS), which specifies exactly which services are covered and to what extent. It is advisable to inquire about prices and possible additional charges before visiting a dentist.