Top Hospitals in Iceland by Specialty
Summary: If you're moving to Iceland or recently arrived, it's important to know about the country's top hospitals for specific medical conditions. Here's a primer.
Iceland's system is primarily public, with a few private clinics. Most specialized services are concentrated in the capital, Reykjavik. While the healthcare system is robust, expats and travelers may consider returning home for highly specialized treatments or rare medical conditions due to limited resources and specialists in Iceland. Here's a guide to the top hospitals in Iceland for various medical conditions:
Top Hospitals in Iceland for Heart Surgery and Chronic Heart Conditions
Landspitali - The National University Hospital of Iceland, located in Reykjavik, is the leading hospital for heart surgery and chronic heart conditions. It houses the country's most advanced cardiac catheterization lab and offers a full range of cardiac services.
Best Hospitals for Cancer Care
The Icelandic Cancer Society operates a specialized cancer treatment center in Reykjavik. This facility works closely with Landspitali to provide comprehensive cancer care, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and supportive care.
Top Hospitals with Neonatal Intensive Care Units
Landspitali is also home to the country's primary Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). This unit is equipped to handle high-risk pregnancies and provide intensive care to newborns.
Best Hospitals for Diabetes
The National University Hospital of Iceland (Landspitali) has a specialized endocrinology department that focuses on diabetes care. Another notable option is the Diabetes Association of Iceland, which provides educational resources and support.
Top Hospitals for Kidney Treatment and Care
Landspitali's Department of Nephrology is the leading center for kidney treatment and care in Iceland. It offers a full range of services, including dialysis and kidney transplants.
Best Hospitals for Neurology
The Department of Neurology at Landspitali is the premier center for neurological care in Iceland. It provides advanced diagnostic and treatment services for a wide range of neurological conditions.
Top Hospitals for Stroke Treatment
Landspitali also houses the country's leading stroke unit. This unit offers acute stroke care, rehabilitation services, and secondary prevention strategies.
Best Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery
The Department of Orthopedics at Landspitali and the Orthopedic Department at Akureyri Hospital in northern Iceland are both renowned for their orthopedic surgery services. They offer a wide range of procedures, including joint replacements and sports medicine treatments.
Top Hospitals for Pediatric Care
Landspitali's Children's Hospital is the primary center for pediatric care in Iceland. It offers a wide range of services, from general pediatrics to specialized care for chronic conditions.
Specialized Hospitals
For psychiatric care, the leading center is the Department of Psychiatry at Landspitali. The Rehabilitation and Health Clinic of Iceland (HMN) in Kopavogur is known for its rehabilitation services, including physical therapy and occupational therapy.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Iceland Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Iceland
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Iceland
- Best Places to Live in Iceland
- Real Estate in Iceland
- Guide to Real Estate in Iceland
- Pros & Cons of Living in Iceland
- Cost of Living in Iceland
- Guide to Residency in Iceland
- Pros and Cons of Living in Iceland 2026


