The healthcare system in Zadar, is a blend of public and private services. The public healthcare system, known as the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO), provides comprehensive care to all citizens and residents, including foreigners. However, many expats and digital nomads also opt for private healthcare services for more specialized 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, from general practice to specialized care. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system if they have a valid residence permit and are contributing to the system. However, for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, many people recommend using private hospitals due to their advanced facilities and shorter waiting times. Public hospitals in Zadar, like the General Hospital Zadar, provide adequate care but may not have the same level of resources as private hospitals.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Zadar
There are several healthcare facilities in Zadar that are recommended for expats and digital nomads. These include:
- General Hospital Zadar – a public hospital located in the city center.
- Poliklinika Breyer – a private clinic specializing in dermatology and venereology, located in the city center.
- Poliklinika Analiza – a private clinic offering a wide range of diagnostic services, located in the city center.
Emergency Services in Zadar
Zadar has a well-functioning emergency service system. Ambulances can be called by dialing 112, the universal emergency number in Croatia. While the response time is generally quick, there may be occasional delays during peak times or in remote areas.
Health Insurance Companies in Zadar
Several private health insurance companies operate in Zadar. 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 also opt for international health insurance providers that offer coverage in multiple countries. These international plans often provide more comprehensive coverage, especially for specialized care and medical repatriation.
