15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Belgium
Last updated on Jul 27, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Belgium is generally considered to be very high, with a well-developed healthcare system and access to advanced medical technology. Belgium has a universal healthcare system, which means that all citizens have access to free healthcare services. Emergency services in Belgium are also highly efficient, with ambulances responding quickly to calls. To call for an ambulance in Belgium, you can dial 112, which is the emergency number for all of Europe. In comparison to the US, Belgium has a higher life expectancy and lower infant mortality rate, indicating that the quality of medical care is better in Belgium.
How are healthcare services Belgium?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Belgium, they replied:
"Belgium offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and mental health services. The public healthcare system in Belgium is funded by the government and is generally of high quality. Foreign residents are eligible to use the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for certain services. Expats in Belgium can use the public healthcare system by registering with their local commune and obtaining a Belgian health insurance card. This card allows them to access the same healthcare services as Belgian citizens, including free or discounted care," commented one expat living in Belgium.
What are medical services in Belgium like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Belgium, they replied:
"Belgium has a well-developed healthcare system that provides high-quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a wide range of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. Belgium also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for specific conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders. In addition, Belgium has a number of medical research centers that are dedicated to researching and developing new treatments and therapies," said one expat.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Belgium?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Belgium can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and the provider. Generally, the cost of healthcare in Belgium is higher than in many other countries, and health insurance premiums can be quite costly. However, the Belgian government provides subsidies to help make healthcare more affordable for those who need it. Additionally, many employers offer health insurance plans to their employees, which can help to reduce the cost of coverage," commented one expat who moved to Belgium.
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What are emergency services like in Belgium?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Belgium wrote:
"Emergency services in Belgium are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 112, which is the emergency number for all of Belgium. This number is free of charge and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones. The operator will then connect you to the appropriate emergency service, such as an ambulance, fire department, or police," remarked one expat in Belgium.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Belgium is home to a wide variety of medical specialists, with some of the best selection located in the cities of Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent. These cities are home to some of the most renowned medical institutions in the country, such as the University Hospitals of Brussels, Antwerp University Hospital, and Ghent University Hospital. Additionally, the cities of Liege, Charleroi, and Namur are also known for their excellent selection of medical specialists," said an expat in Belgium.
Are common prescription medications available in Belgium?
"Prescription medications are widely available in Belgium. Most pharmacies in Belgium are able to provide a wide range of prescription medications, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other medications for various conditions. In addition, many pharmacies in Belgium also offer over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers, cold and flu remedies, and vitamins," wrote an expat living in Belgium.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Belgium?
"Belgium has a high quality of medical care and facilities. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. The country is home to some of the best hospitals in Europe, with highly trained medical staff and modern medical equipment. Belgium also has a strong focus on preventive healthcare, with a range of health promotion initiatives in place. In addition, the country has a comprehensive network of primary care providers, ensuring that all citizens have access to quality healthcare," commented one expat who moved to Belgium.
As a foreigner living in Belgium, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Belgium, you will have access to public healthcare. Belgium has a universal healthcare system, which means that all residents, regardless of nationality, are entitled to the same level of healthcare. The quality of healthcare in Belgium is generally very good, with a wide range of services available. The Belgian healthcare system is funded by taxes, and most medical services are free or heavily subsidized," remarked one expat living in Belgium.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Belgium if they have access to public healthcare in Belgium. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"After feeling ill I was tested for CoVid less than 24 hours had result. "positive"," commented one expat living in Ghent, Belgium.
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Belgium. The government has implemented strict measures to contain the spread of the virus, including the closure of non-essential services and the introduction of telemedicine. As a result, many healthcare providers have had to adapt their services to meet the new demands. In addition, the government has provided additional funding to help healthcare providers cope with the increased demand for services. Despite the challenges, the healthcare system in Belgium 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 Belgium?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Belgium about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"1. Make sure to research the healthcare system in Belgium and the options available to you for prenatal care and delivery. 2. Consider enrolling in a childbirth preparation class to help you prepare for the birth of your baby. 3. Familiarize yourself with the maternity leave and parental leave policies in Belgium to ensure you are taking advantage of all the benefits available to you. 4. Consider joining a local expat group or online forum to connect with other expats who have had babies in Belgium and can provide advice and support. 5. Make sure to register your baby with the local authorities and obtain a Belgian birth certificate. 6. Research the different types of childcare options available in Belgium and decide which one is best for your family. 7. Take the time to explore the local area and find activities and services that are suitable for your family. 8. Make sure to take advantage of the many cultural and educational opportunities available in Belgium for your child," said one expat in Belgium.
"Upon notification of pregnancy: get started on daycare options. Take lessons in the language immediately if you do not speak this, if only for your comfort during the process. Also, your daycare mostly will speak only in French or Flemish to your child if you need to use this option. Be prepared, most appointments are without clothing, which is different from my country! Make sure the people sending you presents from other countries pay the VAT tax as you will be charged for the value of your "gift". Hours are inconvenient for the many doctors appointments, especially if you have a full time job, talk to your boss early about the need for flexibility. Relax: the healthcare system here is excellent and your journey will be very pleasant and supported," remarked one in Brussels.
Are healthcare services good in Belgium?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Belgium. They wrote:
"Belgium has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides quality medical services to its citizens. Healthcare is funded by the government and is free at the point of delivery. All Belgian citizens are entitled to free healthcare, including preventive care, hospitalization, and specialist care. The country also has a wide range of private healthcare providers, offering a variety of services. Belgium has a well-developed network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers, providing a range of services from general practice to specialized care. The country also has a number of specialized centers for mental health, geriatrics, and palliative care. In addition, Belgium has a number of research centers and universities that offer medical education and research," wrote a person living in Belgium.
"Yes. The care is excellent and plentiful in Brussels. It is more expensive than the NHS in the UK but worth paying more for," explained one expat living in Brussels.
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.
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