The healthcare system in Dubrovnik is a blend of public and private services. The public healthcare system, known as the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO), is widely used by both locals and foreigners, while private healthcare offers an alternative for those seeking more specialized or immediate care.
Croatia’s Healthcare System
The Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO) is the public healthcare system in Croatia. It is funded by mandatory health insurance contributions and provides a wide range of services. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system, although some may choose to use private healthcare for more immediate or specialized care. Public hospitals in Dubrovnik, such as the General Hospital Dubrovnik, are equipped to handle serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. However, due to occasional overcrowding and longer wait times, some people may recommend private hospitals for such cases. Private hospitals in Dubrovnik, like the Marin Med Clinic, offer a high standard of care and are often used by expats.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Dubrovnik
- General Hospital Dubrovnik – A public hospital located in Dubrovnik.
- Marin Med Clinic – A private hospital in Dubrovnik known for its orthopedic and ophthalmology departments.
- Poliklinika Analiza – A private clinic in Dubrovnik offering a range of medical services.
Emergency Services in Dubrovnik
Emergency services, including ambulance services, are available in Dubrovnik. In case of an emergency, one can dial 112, the universal European emergency number. While the response time of ambulances is generally prompt, it can sometimes be delayed due to traffic or the remote location of the caller.
Health Insurance Companies in Dubrovnik
Several private health insurance companies operate in Dubrovnik. These include Allianz, Croatia Osiguranje, and Uniqa. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans, including those tailored for expats and digital nomads. However, many expats and digital nomads choose to use specialized expat health insurance providers, which offer coverage that is more suited to their unique needs and lifestyle.
