15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Croatia
Last updated on Oct 15, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Croatia is generally considered to be good, although it may not be as advanced as in the United States. Emergency services are generally reliable and well-equipped, and ambulances can be called by dialing 112. Hospitals are well-staffed and have modern equipment, although some specialized treatments may not be available. In general, medical care in Croatia is of a high standard and is comparable to that of the United States.
How are healthcare services Croatia?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Croatia, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Croatia are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all Croatian citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive care. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats in Croatia can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats can also opt to use private healthcare services, which are generally more expensive but may offer a higher quality of care," wrote an expat living in Croatia.
What are medical services in Croatia like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Croatia, they replied:
"Croatia has a well-developed healthcare system that provides quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of public and private hospitals, clinics, and health centers that offer a wide range of medical services, including preventive care, diagnosis, and treatment. Croatia also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for specific conditions. Additionally, Croatia has a number of highly trained medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are dedicated to providing quality care to their patients," wrote one expat.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Croatia?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Croatia can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, public healthcare is available to all citizens and is funded by the government, but it may not cover all medical costs. Private health insurance is also available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, some medical treatments may not be covered by either public or private health insurance, so out-of-pocket expenses may be necessary," mentioned one expat in Croatia.
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What are emergency services like in Croatia?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Croatia wrote:
"Emergency services in Croatia are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 112, the national emergency number. This number is free of charge and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones. Ambulance services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The ambulance service will provide medical assistance and transport to the nearest hospital," commented one expat living in Croatia.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Croatia is home to a wide variety of medical specialists, with some of the best selection located in the capital city of Zagreb. The city is home to a number of renowned medical institutions, such as the University Hospital Centre Zagreb, the Clinical Hospital Centre Zagreb, and the Croatian Institute for Transfusion Medicine. Other cities with a good selection of medical specialists include Split, Rijeka, and Osijek. Additionally, the coastal region of Istria is home to a number of excellent medical facilities, such as the University Hospital Pula and the University Hospital Rijeka," mentioned one expat in Croatia.
Are common prescription medications available in Croatia?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Croatia. Most pharmacies in Croatia carry a wide range of prescription medications, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other medications used to treat a variety of conditions. Many of these medications are available over the counter, while others require a prescription from a doctor. In addition, some medications may require special authorization from the Croatian Ministry of Health before they can be purchased," mentioned one expat in Croatia.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Croatia?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Croatia are of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of modern medical facilities and highly trained medical professionals. Croatia has a number of world-class hospitals and clinics, offering a range of treatments and services. The country also has a strong focus on preventive healthcare, with a range of health promotion initiatives and campaigns. In addition, Croatia has a well-developed network of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications," commented one expat who moved to Croatia.
As a foreigner living in Croatia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Croatia, you will have access to public healthcare. The healthcare system in Croatia is generally considered to be of a high quality, with a wide range of services available. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and legal residents. The system is divided into primary care, specialist care, and hospital care, with a network of clinics and hospitals throughout the country. The quality of care is generally good, although there may be some waiting times for certain services," commented one expat living in Croatia.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Croatia if they have access to public healthcare in Croatia. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Croatia. The government has implemented a number of measures to protect the public, including the closure of non-essential services, the introduction of social distancing measures, and the implementation of contact tracing. Healthcare workers have been working tirelessly to provide care to those affected by the virus, and the government has provided additional resources to help them cope with the increased demand. Despite the challenges, the healthcare system in Croatia has been able to provide quality care to those in need," wrote one expat.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Croatia?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Croatia about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"1. Make sure to research the healthcare system in Croatia and find a doctor or midwife that you trust and feel comfortable with. 2. Familiarize yourself with the maternity and paternity leave policies in Croatia, as well as any other benefits that may be available to you. 3. Consider enrolling in a childbirth education class to learn more about the birthing process and what to expect. 4. Make sure to have a support system in place, whether it be family, friends, or a local expat group. 5. Have a plan in place for after the baby is born, such as childcare options and transportation. 6. Take advantage of the many cultural activities and attractions that Croatia has to offer, as well as the natural beauty of the country. 7. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it, as there are many resources available to expats in Croatia," wrote a person living in Croatia.
Are healthcare services good in Croatia?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Croatia. They wrote:
"Medical care is well organised with English speaking doctors all around. The big cities have quality hospitals, the smaller towns have at least a first aid. Medical care is below average in price, and cheap compared to the USA. (Guess Obama needs some more support on that issue)," remarked one expat in Dubrovnik.
"Croatia has a public healthcare system that provides free or low-cost healthcare services to its citizens. Healthcare services are provided by a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers throughout the country. Primary care is provided by general practitioners, while specialized care is provided by specialists in various fields. Croatia also has a number of private healthcare providers that offer a range of services, including medical check-ups, diagnostic tests, and treatments. In addition, Croatia has a number of health insurance companies that offer coverage for medical expenses," explained one expat living 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.
Additional Information:
- Croatia Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Croatia
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Croatia
- Best Places to Live in Croatia
- Guide to Real Estate in Croatia
- Pros & Cons of Living in Croatia
- Cost of Living in Croatia
- 10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Croatia
- Top Hospitals in Croatia by Specialty
- Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Croatia (Plus, Itineraries)
- Moving to Croatia with a Pet
- 2024 Guide to Living in Croatia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Croatia 2024