Healthcare and Health Insurance in Estonia

Summary: The quality of medical care in Estonia is generally considered to be on par with the United States. Estonia has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. Emergency services are well-organized and efficient, with ambulances responding quickly to calls. To call for an ambulance in Estonia, dial 112.

How are healthcare services Estonia?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Estonia, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Estonia are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all Estonian citizens. It is also available to foreign residents, although they may have to pay for some services. The quality of public healthcare in Estonia is generally good, with a wide range of services available. Expats in Estonia can use the public healthcare system, although they may have to pay for some services. Expats can also use private healthcare services, which are often more expensive but may offer a higher quality of care," remarked one expat living in Estonia.

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What are medical services in Estonia like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Estonia, they replied:

"Estonia has a well-developed healthcare system that provides quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers that offer a wide range of medical services, including preventive care, diagnosis, and treatment. Estonia also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for specific conditions. In addition, Estonia has a number of private medical facilities that offer a variety of services, including cosmetic surgery and alternative medicine. The country also has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription and over-the-counter medications," wrote one expat.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Estonia?

"Healthcare in Estonia is generally considered to be of a high quality and is relatively affordable. The Estonian government provides universal health insurance coverage to all citizens and permanent residents, which covers most medical services. Private health insurance is also available, but it is not as widely used as the public system. In general, healthcare and health insurance in Estonia are considered to be reasonably priced and accessible," remarked one expat in Estonia.

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What are emergency services like in Estonia?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Estonia wrote:

"Emergency services in Estonia 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 national emergency number. This number is free of charge and can be dialed from any phone, including landlines and mobile phones. The operator will then connect you to the nearest ambulance service. It is important to provide as much information as possible, such as the exact location of the emergency, the type of emergency, and any other relevant information," commented one expat who moved to Estonia.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The capital city of Tallinn is home to some of the best medical specialists in Estonia. Other cities such as Tartu, Narva, and Pärnu also have a wide selection of medical specialists. Additionally, the coastal areas of Estonia, such as the islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa, have a number of highly qualified medical professionals," said one expat.

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Are common prescription medications available in Estonia?

"Prescription medications are available in Estonia, and they are regulated by the Estonian Health Board. Pharmacies in Estonia are required to carry a wide range of medications, including both generic and brand-name drugs. Many of the medications available in Estonia are the same as those available in other European countries. In addition, some medications that are not available in other countries may be available in Estonia. Patients in Estonia can also access medications through online pharmacies, although these must be approved by the Estonian Health Board," remarked one expat in Estonia.

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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Estonia?

"Estonia 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 has a high number of qualified medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. The country also has a number of modern hospitals and clinics, equipped with the latest medical technology. In addition, Estonia has a number of specialized medical centers, providing specialized care for specific medical conditions. Overall, Estonia provides quality medical care and facilities for its citizens," wrote an expat living in Estonia.

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As a foreigner living in Estonia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Estonia, you will have access to public healthcare. Estonia has a universal healthcare system, which means that all residents, regardless of nationality, are entitled to free or low-cost healthcare services. The quality of healthcare in Estonia is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and mental health services. The country also has a well-developed network of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications," commented one expat living in Estonia.

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What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Estonia if they have access to public healthcare in Estonia. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Estonia. The government has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare workers, such as the introduction of telemedicine services and the use of protective equipment. 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 strain due to the increased number of patients and the need to provide care for those with Covid-19. As a result, some services have been delayed or cancelled, and wait times for appointments have increased. However, the healthcare system has been able to cope with the increased demand and has been able to provide quality care to those in need," wrote one expat.

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What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Estonia?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Estonia about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"1. Make sure to research the healthcare system in Estonia and the maternity services available to you. 2. Consider enrolling in a prenatal class to help you prepare for the birth of your baby. 3. Make sure to register your baby with the local authorities as soon as possible. 4. Consider joining a local expat group or online forum to connect with other expats who have had babies in Estonia. 5. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations regarding parenting and childcare. 6. Consider hiring a doula or midwife to help you through the birth process. 7. Make sure to take advantage of the free healthcare services available to you as an expat. 8. Consider enrolling your baby in a local daycare or preschool to help them learn the language and culture of Estonia. 9. Make sure to take time to explore Estonia and take advantage of the many activities and attractions available to you and your family. 10. Don't forget to take time for yourself and take care of your own needs during this exciting time," remarked one in Estonia.

Are healthcare services good in Estonia?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Estonia. They wrote:

"Estonia has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a universal healthcare system that is funded by taxes and provides free healthcare to all citizens. The healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Social Affairs and is divided into primary, secondary, and tertiary care. Primary care is provided by family doctors, while secondary and tertiary care is provided by hospitals and specialized clinics. Estonia also has a number of private healthcare providers that offer a range of services. The country has a well-developed network of pharmacies and medical laboratories, as well as a number of health insurance companies. In addition, Estonia has a number of health promotion and disease prevention programs in place," remarked one expat in Estonia.

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Estonia

How are healthcare services Estonia?

What are medical services in Estonia like?

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Estonia?

What are emergency services like in Estonia?

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

Are common prescription medications available in Estonia?

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Estonia?

As a foreigner living in Estonia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Estonia?

Are healthcare services good in Estonia?

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