INTERVIEW with Dr. Bibiána Petrasová: General Practice as a Long-Term Partnership with the Patient

31. 3. 2026

Today, general practice plays a key role in both prevention and the coordination of care. In this interview, Dr. Bibiána Petrasová explains why she chose this field, what she considers the foundation of quality care, and what kind of approach she offers patients at the AKESO POLICLINIC.

 

Doctor, could you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Bibiána Petrasová. I’m from Slovakia, from a small village in the Tatra Mountains. I studied medicine in Brno, and after graduation I started working in Prague, where I still live today. In my free time, I enjoy playing sports and baking cakes, which is a pleasant way for me to relax and take a break from work for a while.


What led you to medicine? Was it a childhood dream, or did you come to it gradually?
I think it was a combination of both. My mom often recalls that as a little girl, I had my own doctor’s kit and would “treat” everyone around me. At the same time, though, I also ended up in medicine somewhat by process of elimination, as I gradually figured out what I enjoyed and what made sense to me.


Where did you study medicine, and what are your memories of your studies?
I studied medicine at the Faculty of Medicine at Masaryk University in Brno. I remember my studies as a challenging but also very interesting time. It was several years of intensive learning, new experiences, and meeting wonderful people.


Was there an experience or a person during your studies or at the beginning of your career who had a significant influence on you?
During my studies, I met many physicians who inspired me. I’ve always admired those who were not only highly skilled professionally but also empathetic as people. However, I was most influenced by an internship at an outpatient clinic—a physician who truly loved his work and clearly cared deeply about his patients. His patients trusted him, and there was a strong sense of mutual trust among them. It was then that I realized how important a human touch is in medicine.


What were your first professional steps after graduation?
After graduating, I started working at the Královské Vinohrady University Hospital in Prague, where I worked for about three years. It was a very valuable experience that gave me a solid foundation for my future practice.


Why did you choose general practice?
General practice appealed to me primarily because it allows for long-term relationships with patients. This way, a physician doesn’t just see a patient once, but can monitor their health over time and guide them in taking care of their health. Sometimes this work is demanding, but it’s precisely its complexity that I really enjoy. I also like that you really get to know your patients.


What do you enjoy or find most fulfilling about working as a general practitioner?
What I enjoy most is interacting with people and the diversity of this work. Every day brings new situations and challenges, and it’s interesting to find solutions to patients’ various health problems. It also gives me great joy to feel that I can truly help someone.


In your opinion, what is the most important aspect of a general practitioner’s role for patients today?
A general physician is often a patient’s first point of contact with the healthcare system. They can help with prevention, the early detection of health problems, and guiding patients through further testing or treatment.


What approach to patients resonates most with you?
I strive for an open, respectful, and compassionate approach. It’s important to me to listen to the patient and explain everything so that they truly understand their treatment.


What do you consider the foundation of a good doctor-patient relationship?
The foundation is trust and good communication. When a patient openly shares their concerns and the physician explains everything clearly, the partnership can work much better. It’s also important for the patient to try to follow the physician’s recommendations.


What do you think people should keep in mind if they want to take care of their health?
Prevention is very important—regular checkups, a healthy lifestyle, and enough exercise and rest. Many health problems can be prevented through timely health care.


What brought you to AKESO POLICLINIC?
I was drawn to the modern and very pleasant environment, which offers good conditions for professional development. I greatly appreciate that the clinic gives physicians the opportunity for continuing education and participation in conferences, which is very important for high-quality medical care. The then-director was also very kind and accommodating. Likewise, I must say that the current director runs the entire facility very well and creates a pleasant atmosphere.


What services or approach would you like to offer your patients?
I’d like to offer patients a professional yet compassionate approach. It’s important to me that they feel comfortable in the office and know they can turn to me with any health issue. Our nurses also play a major role in patient care; they are very kind, helpful, and professional. Together, we strive to provide the best possible care.


Do you have a message for patients visiting you for the first time?
I’d like them to know that they’ll find an open and welcoming atmosphere here. Our goal is for patients to feel comfortable in the office and know that they can turn to us whenever they need to. Together, we’ll always strive to find the best solution for their health. And if by any chance they’re feeling a little anxious, I promise that a smile is always part of the package here.