Istria, a region in Croatia, offers both public and private healthcare services to its residents. The public healthcare system, known as the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO), is accessible to foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, while private healthcare facilities are also available for those who prefer them.
Croatia’s Healthcare System
The Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO) is the public healthcare system in Croatia, providing a range of services to citizens and foreigners alike. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Croatia, although many expats may prefer to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Istria are generally well-equipped and staffed, but may not be as modern or comfortable as private facilities. Private hospitals in Istria offer a higher level of comfort and service, and are often recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Istria
Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Istria include:
- General Hospital Pula (public) – located in Pula, this hospital offers a range of services including emergency care and surgery.
- Thalassotherapia Opatija (public) – located in Opatija, this hospital specializes in cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation.
- Poliklinika Analiza (private) – located in Pula, this clinic offers a range of diagnostic and specialist services.
In case of emergencies or specialized medical care not available in Istria, expats may need to travel to larger cities such as Rijeka or Zagreb, which are approximately 1.5 to 3 hours away by car, respectively.
Emergency Services in Istria
Ambulance services are available in Istria, and can be called by dialing 112. Response times may vary depending on the location and availability of ambulances, but generally, they arrive promptly to attend to emergencies.
Health Insurance Companies in Istria
Popular private health insurers in Istria include Allianz, Croatia Osiguranje, and Wiener Osiguranje. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurance providers, or they may opt for specialized expat health insurance providers that cater specifically to their needs. It is important for expats and digital nomads to carefully consider their healthcare needs and insurance options while living in Istria.
