15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Iceland
Last updated on Jan 06, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in Iceland is generally considered to be very high, with a strong emphasis on preventative care. Iceland has a universal healthcare system, which provides free or low-cost access to medical services for all citizens. In comparison to the US, Iceland has a much lower rate of infant mortality and a longer life expectancy. Emergency services in Iceland are well-developed and reliable. Ambulance services are available 24 hours a day, and can be called by dialing 112. Emergency medical personnel are highly trained and equipped with the latest medical technology.
How are healthcare services Iceland?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Iceland, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Iceland are provided by the public healthcare system, which is funded by the government and managed by the Icelandic Directorate of Health. The public healthcare system provides a wide range of services, including primary care, hospital care, mental health services, and preventive health services. The quality of public healthcare in Iceland is generally high, with a focus on preventive care and access to specialist services. Foreign residents in Iceland have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats in Iceland can use the public healthcare system by registering with the Icelandic Directorate of Health and paying a fee for services," said one expat.
What are medical services in Iceland like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Iceland, they replied:
"Iceland has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides high 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. Medical services in Iceland are provided by both public and private hospitals and clinics, and the country has a well-developed network of primary care physicians. Iceland also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for a variety of conditions. In addition, Iceland has a number of medical research centers that are dedicated to researching and developing new treatments and technologies," said one expat.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Iceland?
"Healthcare in Iceland is generally considered to be of high quality and is provided free of charge to all citizens and legal residents. Health insurance is also available in Iceland, but it is not mandatory. The cost of health insurance depends on the type of coverage chosen, but it is generally considered to be quite expensive compared to other countries," remarked one expat living in Iceland.
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What are emergency services like in Iceland?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Iceland wrote:
"Emergency services in Iceland are highly efficient and reliable. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 112, which is the emergency number for Iceland. The operator will then connect you to the appropriate emergency service. Ambulances are typically dispatched within minutes of the call being made," wrote an expat living in Iceland.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Reykjavik is the largest city in Iceland and has the most comprehensive selection of medical specialists. Other cities such as Akureyri, Hafnarfjörður, and Kópavogur also have a wide range of medical specialists. Additionally, the Westfjords region of Iceland is home to a number of medical specialists, particularly in the areas of cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics," said one expat living in Iceland.
Are common prescription medications available in Iceland?
"Prescription medications are available in Iceland, although the availability of certain medications may vary depending on the individual pharmacy. Generally, most common prescription medications can be found in Iceland, including antibiotics, painkillers, and other medications used to treat a variety of conditions. In addition, many pharmacies in Iceland offer generic versions of certain medications, which can be a more affordable option for those who need them," said an expat in Iceland.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Iceland?
"Iceland has a high quality of medical care and facilities. The country has a comprehensive public health system that provides free medical care to all citizens and permanent residents. The medical system is well-funded and staffed with highly trained professionals. Iceland also has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer specialized care. In general, the quality of medical care in Iceland is excellent, with a focus on preventive care and patient-centered care," remarked one expat in Iceland.
As a foreigner living in Iceland, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Iceland, you will have access to public healthcare. The healthcare system in Iceland is comprehensive and of a high quality, with a wide range of services available. All residents of Iceland, including foreigners, are entitled to free healthcare, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications. The healthcare system is funded by taxes, and is managed by the Icelandic government," mentioned one expat in Iceland.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Iceland if they have access to public healthcare in Iceland. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the local healthcare system in Iceland. The healthcare system has had to adapt quickly to the changing needs of the population, and has done so with great success. The government has implemented a range of measures to ensure that the healthcare system is able to cope with the increased demand, including increasing the number of healthcare professionals, expanding the capacity of hospitals, and introducing new technologies to facilitate remote consultations. The healthcare system has also been proactive in providing information and guidance to the public on how to protect themselves and others from the virus. Overall, the healthcare system in Iceland has responded well to the pandemic and has been able to provide the necessary care and support to the population," commented one expat living in Iceland.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Iceland?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Iceland about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the healthcare system in Iceland before having a baby, as it may be different from what you are used to. Make sure to register with a local doctor and hospital as soon as possible, and to familiarize yourself with the maternity services available. It is also important to make sure you have the necessary documents and paperwork in order before the baby arrives. Additionally, it is a good idea to connect with other expat parents in Iceland, as they can provide valuable advice and support," explained one expat.
Are healthcare services good in Iceland?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Iceland. They wrote:
"Iceland has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides universal access to medical services. All citizens and legal residents of Iceland are entitled to free healthcare, including hospital care, specialist care, and preventive care. The healthcare system is funded by taxes and is managed by the Icelandic Directorate of Health. Primary care is provided by general practitioners, while specialist care is provided by hospitals and specialist clinics. Iceland also has a number of private healthcare providers, which offer services such as dental care, optometry, and physiotherapy. The country also has a number of health promotion initiatives, such as health education campaigns and health screenings," said one expat in Iceland.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Iceland Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Iceland
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Iceland
- Best Places to Live in Iceland
- Guide to Real Estate in Iceland
- Pros & Cons of Living in Iceland
- Cost of Living in Iceland
- Top Hospitals in Iceland by Specialty
- Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Iceland (Plus, Itineraries)
- Moving to Iceland with a Pet
- Understanding Mental Health in Iceland
- Pros and Cons of Living in Iceland 2024