PERH: Tick removal in emergency department is a paid service
The North Estonia Medical Centre (PERH) has introduced a fee of 50 euros for tick removal in the emergency department if the tick is in a location the person can remove themselves. The hospital advises buying a special tool and removing the tick at home.
The North Estonia Medical Centre (PERH) has implemented a paid service for tick removal in its emergency department (EMO). This was explained by Marit Märk, head of the emergency medicine department at PERH.
Märk noted that tick removal is not considered an emergency healthcare service. Therefore, if the tick is located in a place the person can reach and remove on their own, assistance in the EMO is treated as a paid service. The change took effect on April 1, 2026.
According to a report by "Aktuaalne kaamera", patients who visited the PERH emergency department with a tick bite received a bill for 50 euros. At registration, patients are informed that the service is paid before being sent to triage. Märk stated that patients have so far been understanding, and no issues have arisen. PERH has no plans to raise the fee.
During the summer months, nearly 200 patients come to the EMO with tick bites. Märk recommends purchasing a special tick removal tool at a pharmacy. With its help, the tick can be removed by the individual or with the assistance of a relative. In that case, a visit to the emergency department is unnecessary.
After a tick bite, one should carefully monitor their health for three weeks, paying attention to the appearance of a rash or fever. If such symptoms occur, a family doctor should be consulted. Since April 1, a change has also come into effect where an EMO visit may be limited to a consultation with a triage nurse only.
