The healthcare system in Opatija 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 healthcare services. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for certain services. Public hospitals in Opatija, such as the Thalassotherapia Opatija, are generally well-equipped and staffed by professional medical personnel. However, for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, some people may recommend private hospitals due to shorter waiting times and more personalized care. Private hospitals in Opatija, like the Poliklinika Profozi?, offer a high standard of care, with modern facilities and English-speaking staff.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Opatija
- Thalassotherapia Opatija – a public hospital specializing in cardiovascular diseases and rehabilitation, located in Opatija.
- Poliklinika Profozi? – a private clinic offering a range of medical services, located in Opatija.
- Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka – a large public hospital providing a wide range of medical services, located in Rijeka, approximately 20 minutes by car from Opatija.
Emergency Services in Opatija
Opatija has ambulance services available for emergencies. The emergency number in Croatia is 112, which can be dialed for immediate medical assistance. The response time of the ambulance service can vary depending on the location and the nature of the emergency, but generally, they are known to respond promptly.
Health Insurance Companies in Opatija
There are several popular private health insurance companies in Opatija, including Allianz and Croatia Osiguranje. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans, including coverage for private healthcare services. Many expats and digital nomads in Opatija choose to take out private health insurance, either with these local companies or with international health insurance providers, to ensure they have access to private healthcare services when needed.
