Health Care in Istanbul

Istanbul has a public and private healthcare system. The public healthcare system is called the Social Security Institution (SSI) and is used by both Turkish citizens and foreigners. People generally recommend using public hospitals in Istanbul for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Istanbul are typically crowded and have long wait times, but the quality of care is generally good. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Turkey. However, many expats primarily use private hospitals for their healthcare needs. Private hospitals in Istanbul are typically more modern and have shorter wait times, but they are more expensive. People generally recommend using private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Istanbul

Recommended clinics and hospitals in Istanbul for expats include:

• Memorial Atasehir Hospital (private) - located in Atasehir, Istanbul
• Acibadem Maslak Hospital (private) - located in Maslak, Istanbul
• American Hospital (private) - located in Sisli, Istanbul
• Florence Nightingale Hospital (private) - located in Sisli, Istanbul
• Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty Hospital (public) - located in Cerrahpasa, Istanbul

Emergency Services in Istanbul

Ambulance services are available in Istanbul. To call for an ambulance, dial 112. Ambulances typically arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the situation.

Health Insurance Companies in Istanbul

The most popular private health insurers in Istanbul are Anadolu Sigorta, Allianz Sigorta, and Axa Sigorta. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.