15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Hungary
Last updated on Aug 15, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Hungary is generally considered to be good, although it may not be as advanced as in the United States. Emergency services are generally reliable and efficient, and ambulances can be called by dialing 112. Hospitals are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. However, the cost of medical care in Hungary is generally lower than in the US.
How are healthcare services Hungary?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Hungary, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Hungary are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all 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. Expats in Hungary can use the public healthcare system, but they must first register with the local government office and obtain a health insurance card. This card allows them to access the public healthcare system and receive the same level of care as Hungarian citizens. Expats can also opt to use private healthcare services, which are often more expensive but may offer more comprehensive coverage," said an expat in Hungary.
"Ask what the capabilities are. Ask for costs up front. If possible don't ask for a "formal bill" as this will increase your out of pocket substantially," commented one expat living in Fonyod, Hungary.
What are medical services in Hungary like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Hungary, they replied:
"There may not be the same new offices but the quality of care is as good if not better than in the USA. Had several surgeries (hip replacement, cataract, breast, hernia) with excellent care, all included in the insurance, after care in a rehab center as I live alone with no help - all included. People are people - sometimes they have a bad day - so do I. You live in the real world," said one expat.
"In Hungary, medical services are generally of a high standard. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical facilities and services available. The country has a number of public and private hospitals, as well as a network of primary care clinics and specialist medical centers. The quality of care is generally good, with a focus on preventive medicine and patient-centered care. Hungary also has a number of highly-trained medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals," remarked one expat in Hungary.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Hungary?
"I worked for an International Organization here in Hungary for 6 years and have since retired, staying in Hungary. I am not yet eligible for national healthcare so I purchased a doctor policy from the clinic where I go (English speaking doctors) and I also purchased a separate hospitalization policy. All together this costs less than $150 a month and there are cheaper plans if you need to limit the number of doctor visits. Note, this does not include the cost of medication, but since I am not on any regular medicine, it isn't an issue. But, when I do need a prescription, I find that it is very inexpensive. Of course, there are more expensive health insurance plans out there, but I find that what I have works very well for me," remarked one expat living in Hungary.
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What are emergency services like in Hungary?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Hungary wrote:
"Emergency services in Hungary 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. The operator will ask for the caller's location and the nature of the emergency, and will then dispatch an ambulance to the scene," said an expat in Hungary.
"In my case the major medical facility is about 36 to 41 km (Siofok or Kaposvar). Emergency services are slow compared to the US and not so sure about the ambulance medic's qualifications but I tend to think it is less than in the US! Although some ambulances in Hungary actually may have a physician on it but I don't know what the criteria are..," commented one expat living in Fonyod, Hungary.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Budapest is the largest city in Hungary and is home to some of the best medical specialists in the country. The city is home to a number of world-class hospitals and clinics, including the Semmelweis University Medical Center, which is one of the leading medical institutions in the country. Other cities in Hungary with a good selection of medical specialists include Debrecen, Szeged, and Pécs. Additionally, the towns of Gy?r and Sopron are known for their excellent medical facilities," mentioned one expat in Hungary.
Are common prescription medications available in Hungary?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Hungary. Most medications are available in pharmacies, and some are available over the counter. Prescription medications are regulated by the Hungarian government, and must be prescribed by a doctor or other healthcare professional. In addition, some medications may require special authorization from the government before they can be purchased," commented one expat who moved to Hungary.
"There is a local clinic and they will prescribe you pretty much all routine medication (blood pressure, cholesterol etc.) if you ask them. I used to take my bottle from the US with me but I realized it was not necessary," said one expat.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Hungary?
"We are fortunate to live nearby to a hospital. Generally, medical care is cheap in Hungary," commented one expat who moved to Budapest.
"Medical facilities and medical care in Hungary 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. Hungary is home to some of the best medical universities in Europe, and the country is known for its excellent medical research and development. The Hungarian government also provides free or low-cost healthcare to its citizens, ensuring that everyone has access to quality medical care," said one expat.
As a foreigner living in Hungary, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Hungary, you will have access to public healthcare. The quality of care is generally good, 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 wide range of services available in each area. The public healthcare system is generally well-regarded and is considered to be one of the best in Europe," said one expat living in Hungary.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Hungary if they have access to public healthcare in Hungary. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"I have not contracted COVID but I have gone to the doctor the my yearly check up and the health services are still working well," wrote one expat.
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Hungary. The government has implemented strict measures to contain the spread of the virus, including the closure of non-essential services and the introduction of a curfew. Healthcare workers have been working tirelessly to provide care to those affected by the virus, and the government has provided additional resources to support them. Despite the challenges, the healthcare system in Hungary has been able to provide adequate care to those in need. The government has also implemented measures to ensure that those who are unable to access healthcare services due to the pandemic are still able to receive the care they need," commented one expat who moved to Hungary.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Hungary?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Hungary about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the healthcare system in Hungary before having a baby. Make sure to find a doctor or midwife who speaks your language and is familiar with the healthcare system in Hungary. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the maternity and paternity leave policies in Hungary. Additionally, it is a good idea to look into the availability of childcare options in Hungary, as well as any government subsidies or programs that may be available. Finally, it is important to build a support network of other expats who have had babies in Hungary, as they can provide invaluable advice and support," said one expat in Hungary.
Are healthcare services good in Hungary?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Hungary. They wrote:
"Yes there is many choices . Private clinics, pay as you go. No Hungarian health care necessary or the public system health card required," said one person in Budapest.
"Healthcare services in Hungary are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and provides free or low-cost services to citizens. Private healthcare services are also available, and are often more comprehensive than public services. In Hungary, healthcare is provided by a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers. These facilities offer a range of services, including primary care, specialist care, and emergency services. In addition, Hungary has a number of specialized medical centers, such as cancer centers and rehabilitation centers. The quality of healthcare in Hungary is generally good, and the country has a well-developed system of medical research and education," remarked one expat in Hungary.
"I have medical coverage in the US but in Hungary I'm prepared to go to private providers and pay cash," explained one expat living in Budapest.
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:
- Hungary Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Hungary
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Hungary
- Best Places to Live in Hungary
- Real Estate in Hungary
- Guide to Real Estate in Hungary
- Pros & Cons of Living in Hungary
- Cost of Living in Hungary
- Pros and Cons of Living in Hungary
- How to Rent a Home in Hungary
- Enrolling in the Public Healthcare System in Hungary
- 10 Best Places for Families to Live in Hungary
- Pros and Cons of Living in Hungary 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Hungary
- More Advice about Retiring in Hungary