Description

The National Ambulance Service (OMSZ) is Hungary's largest ambulance and healthcare institution, serving the entire country for over 70 years through 255 ambulance stations and rescue points. Before 1887, first aid in Hungary was provided by police doctors. Inspired by foreign models, Dr. Géza Kresz initiated a movement to organize a rescue service in Budapest. This led to the establishment of the Budapest Voluntary Ambulance Association (BÖME) on May 10, 1887, with Aladár Andrássy as president and Géza Kresz as professional leader. In 1890, BÖME moved to Markó Street, where their headquarters, still in use today, was completed in 1899. Initially serving only Budapest, voluntary associations soon spread to rural areas. On May 10, 1948, the state established the National Ambulance Service (OMSZ), starting with 76 stations, 399 employees, and 156 ambulances. Today, the OMSZ operates 255 stations and covers 40 million kilometers on Hungary’s roads annually.

Engraver: Mercédesz Molnár