15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Austria
Last updated on Apr 22, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Austria is generally considered to be very high, with a well-developed healthcare system and a wide range of medical services available. In comparison to the US, Austria has a higher doctor-to-patient ratio, shorter wait times for appointments, and a greater emphasis on preventative care. Emergency services in Austria are also highly efficient, with ambulances typically arriving within minutes of a call. To call for an ambulance in Austria, dial 144.
How are healthcare services Austria?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Austria, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Austria are provided by both public and private providers. The public healthcare system is funded by taxes and is available to all Austrian citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally high, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive care. Expats in Austria are eligible to use the public healthcare system, provided they have a valid residence permit. To access public healthcare, expats must register with their local health insurance fund and pay a monthly contribution. Private healthcare is also available in Austria, and is often used by expats who wish to access more specialized services or shorter waiting times," wrote one expat.
"Well worth the money, which is affordable, and no such thing as pre-existing conditions, for the insurance to give you a reason to be denied," commented one expat who moved to Vienna.
What are medical services in Austria like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Austria, they replied:
"In Austria, medical services are of a high standard. The country has a comprehensive public health system, which provides free or low-cost medical care to all citizens. Austria also has a well-developed private health care system, which offers a wide range of services. The country has a number of highly-regarded hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. Austria also has a number of specialized medical centers, which provide specialized treatments and services," wrote an expat living in Austria.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Austria?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Austria are generally considered to be quite expensive. The cost of health insurance is based on a person's income, and can be quite high for those with higher incomes. Additionally, the cost of medical care in Austria is generally higher than in other countries, and many people find it difficult to afford the necessary treatments. However, the Austrian government does provide some subsidies for those who cannot afford health insurance, and there are also a number of private health insurance companies that offer more affordable plans," said one expat.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are emergency services like in Austria?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Austria wrote:
"Emergency services in Austria are highly efficient and reliable. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial the emergency number, which is 112. This number is free of charge and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones. The operator will then connect you to the nearest ambulance service. The ambulance service will then send an ambulance to the location of the emergency," remarked one expat living in Austria.
"We live 2 tram stops away from Wilhelminenspital der Stadt Wien (socialized health care). The emergency services there are excellent. I spent 6 months in the hospital and my time there, and care, has been excellent compared to the US hospitals, where it is about how are you going to pay for your care. In Vienna, it is focused on how can we help you get better," said one expat living in Vienna.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Did not have to travel outside of my area, but if I was to I would NOT need a referral," mentioned one expat in Vienna.
"In Austria, Vienna is often considered to have the best selection of medical specialists, as it is home to some of the country's leading academic hospitals and universities offering medical education. Additionally, Salzburg, Linz, and Graz are also known for their high-quality medical specialists, due to their well-developed healthcare infrastructure, excellent medical facilities, and highly-skilled staff. Furthermore, rural areas of Austria tend to be well-serviced with smaller health centres for general medical care, with larger regional centres for specialised care," commented one expat who moved to Austria.
Are common prescription medications available in Austria?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Austria. Most medications can be obtained from pharmacies, with a valid prescription from a doctor. Some medications may require special authorization from the Austrian health authorities. In addition, some medications may not be available in Austria, and may need to be imported from other countries," commented one expat who moved to Austria.
"The pharmacies are virtually on every other block, and my Dr. is across the street from me. I go to the the doctor every other month to get my prescriptions filled (15 medications) and the co-payments are always under 5 Euro. Most medications have to go through the doctor. The overall experience is good and I have no complaints," said one expat.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Austria?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Austria are of a high quality and standard. The country is well-known for its excellent health services, which are renowned for their innovation and quality. The Austrian healthcare system is ranked among the best in Europe, offering access to advanced technological treatments and medical services. Austrian doctors are highly trained and highly qualified, providing top-notch medical care to their patients. Additionally, the cost for medical services is generally quite affordable compared to the high quality provided. Overall, the medical provision in Austria is highly rated and respected," said one expat.
As a foreigner living in Austria, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Austria, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Austria is comprehensive and provides a wide range of services, including preventive care, primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and long-term care. The quality of care is generally high, and the cost of services is usually covered by the public health insurance system. The system is also well-integrated, meaning that it is easy to access care from different providers," remarked one expat in Austria.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Austria if they have access to public healthcare in Austria. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"Hospitals conduct screenIng at the door prior to allowing entry for services, doctor's offices space out appointments and seating," said one expat.
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Austria. The government has implemented a range of measures to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare workers, including the introduction of telemedicine services, increased testing capacity, and the implementation of contact tracing. In addition, the government has provided financial support to healthcare providers to help them cope with the increased demand for services. Despite these measures, the healthcare system has been under immense strain due to the pandemic, with long waiting times for appointments and a shortage of medical staff. Nevertheless, the healthcare system in Austria has been able to cope with the pandemic and provide quality care to those in need," remarked one expat in Austria.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Austria?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Austria about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"I would definitely recommend attending the classes/ information nights. For an international friend I would also recommend thinking about private insurance depending on how well they speak German. You have more selection of English speaking doctors and midwives," explained one expat.
"I would suggest she find a good midwife, and cover all the bases and communicate exactly all her options so that everything is understood before the labor begins. I would have her tour the hospital, ask questions etc.," said one person in Graz.
"Firstly, make sure to research birthing practices in Austria ahead of time - from the types of birthing options available to health insurance requirements. Secondly, consider finding an expat friendly and English speaking doctor you can trust. Thirdly, take advantage of the generous baby supplies and equipment available to purchase in Austria. Fourth, don’t be afraid to join an expat group, as the parents can share experiences and give advice for raising children in Austria. And lastly, have a backup plan in case there are any delays or problems with visas or registration," remarked one expat in Austria.
Are healthcare services good in Austria?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Austria. They wrote:
"In Austria, healthcare is provided by a universal, publicly-funded service. Comprehensive health insurance is managed through the country's statutory health insurance system, which is provided by a variety of social insurance funds. All legal residents of Austria are entitled to receive healthcare from a general practitioner and the national health-care system covers the majority of medical costs. Austria has one of the most advanced healthcare systems in Europe, and its citizens have access to a range of services, including preventative care, specialist consultations, diagnostics and treatment, and long-term care. The system also covers mental health services, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, and physiotherapy," said one person in Austria.
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.
Additional Information:
- Austria Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Austria
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Austria
- Best Places to Live in Austria
- Real Estate in Austria
- Guide to Real Estate in Austria
- Pros & Cons of Living in Austria
- Cost of Living in Austria
- 10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Austria
- Top Hospitals in Austria by Specialty
- Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Austria (Plus, Itineraries)
- Moving with a Pet to Austria
- 2024 Guide to Living in Austria
- Pros and Cons of Living in Austria 2024