Health Care in Zagreb
Summary: Explore healthcare options for expatriates and digital nomads in Zagreb: uncover top-rated providers, hospitals, and medical facilities to meet your needs while living abroad in Zagreb.
The healthcare system in Zagreb, consists of both public and private healthcare providers. The public healthcare system, known as the Croatian health insurance Fund (HZZO), is available to both locals and foreigners, while private healthcare providers offer additional services and options for those who prefer them.
Croatia's Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in Croatia is managed by the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO), which provides coverage for a wide range of medical services. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Croatia, provided they have valid health insurance. Public hospitals in Zagreb are generally well-equipped and staffed, but may not be recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgeries due to long waiting times and limited resources. Private hospitals, on the other hand, offer more specialized care and shorter waiting times, making them a popular choice for expats and those seeking treatment for serious medical conditions.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Zagreb
Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Zagreb include:
- University Hospital Center Zagreb (public) - located in the city center, this hospital offers a wide range of medical services and specialties.
- Poliklinika Aviva (private) - a modern clinic located in the city center, offering various medical services, including diagnostics, surgery, and rehabilitation.
- Poliklinika Sunce (private) - a private hospital with several locations in Zagreb, offering a wide range of medical services and specialties.
- St. Catherine Specialty Hospital (private) - located in the outskirts of Zagreb, this hospital specializes in orthopedics, spine surgery, and sports medicine.
Emergency Services in Zagreb
Ambulance services are available in Zagreb and can be reached by dialing 112. The response time for ambulances may vary depending on the location and traffic conditions, but they generally arrive within a reasonable time frame.
Health Insurance Companies in Zagreb
Popular private health insurance companies in Zagreb include Allianz, Croatia Osiguranje, and Wiener Osiguranje. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurance providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers, depending on their needs and preferences. It is important to ensure that the chosen insurance plan provides adequate coverage for both public and private healthcare services in Croatia.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


