Analysis of Healthcare Financing from Cohesion Policy Funds in the Ústí Region During the 2014–2020 Period

Healthcare and its development represent an important and increasingly topical issue at the European level. To achieve its healthcare objectives, the Czech Republic draws not only on state budget funds but also on financial resources provided under the European Union’s Cohesion Policy. These allocations are intended, among other things, to improve healthcare infrastructure and enhance access to medical services across various regions. During the 2014–2020 programming period, the Czech healthcare system benefited from a substantial amount of European Structural and Investment Funds, with the Ústí Region standing out as a key recipient. In this region, 28 projects were implemented, utilizing a total of CZK 2 399 million from European sources. These investments primarily targeted the modernization and development of healthcare facilities, contributing to improved standards of care and enhanced healthcare infrastructure. By 2020, nearly CZK 745 million had been allocated to healthcare-related projects in the Ústí Region, most of which focused on improving service quality and availability. Although support for the health sector was relatively limited during the initial phase of the monitored period, a significant turnaround occurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Both the European Union and the grant recipients responded rapidly and flexibly, thus substantially increasing the effectiveness and scope of assistance. Projects initiated after 2020 received CZK 1 655 million in EU funding, accounting for two-thirds of the total allocation for healthcare infrastructure in the Ústí Region. This development confirms the initial hypothesis that, through Cohesion Policy, the European Union is increasing its support for the health sector both in terms of investment scale and its contribution to healthcare infrastructure in the Ústí Region.