15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Kazakhstan
Last updated on Jan 01, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in Kazakhstan is generally considered to be good, although it is not as advanced as in the United States. Emergency services are available and are generally reliable. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 103 or 112.
How are healthcare services Kazakhstan?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Kazakhstan, they replied:
"Kazakhstan offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive care. The public healthcare system in Kazakhstan is funded by the government and is available to all citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Kazakhstan is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained medical staff. Foreign residents in Kazakhstan have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Kazakhstan can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition, many expats opt to purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," mentioned one expat in Kazakhstan.
What are medical services in Kazakhstan like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Kazakhstan, they replied:
"Kazakhstan has a well-developed healthcare system, providing a wide range of medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a variety of treatments and services, including general medical care, specialized care, and emergency services. The country also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized treatments such as oncology, cardiology, and neurology. In addition, Kazakhstan has a number of private medical facilities that offer a range of services, including cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and alternative medicine," said an expat in Kazakhstan.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kazakhstan?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Kazakhstan can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, the cost of healthcare in Kazakhstan is higher than in many other countries, and health insurance premiums can be quite costly. However, the government does provide some subsidies for health insurance, which can help to reduce the cost of coverage. Additionally, there are a number of private health insurance companies that offer competitive rates and coverage options," said one expat.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are emergency services like in Kazakhstan?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Kazakhstan wrote:
"In Kazakhstan, emergency services are available to provide medical assistance and other emergency services. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 103 from any phone. The emergency services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The ambulance will arrive with a team of medical professionals who are trained to provide medical assistance in emergency situations," said an expat in Kazakhstan.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Almaty is widely regarded as having the best selection of medical specialists in Kazakhstan. The city is home to a number of leading medical institutions, including the Almaty Medical University, the Almaty Research Institute of Cardiology, and the Almaty Institute of Oncology. Additionally, the city is home to a number of private clinics and hospitals that offer a wide range of medical services. Astana is another city in Kazakhstan that has a good selection of medical specialists. The city is home to the National Research Center for Maternal and Child Health, the National Research Center for Cardiology, and the National Research Center for Oncology. Additionally, Astana is home to a number of private clinics and hospitals that offer a wide range of medical services. Other cities in Kazakhstan that have a good selection of medical specialists include Aktau, Atyrau, and Shymkent," wrote an expat living in Kazakhstan.
Are common prescription medications available in Kazakhstan?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Kazakhstan. Pharmacies in Kazakhstan are well-stocked with a wide variety of medications, including both generic and brand-name drugs. Many of the medications available in Kazakhstan are imported from other countries, such as Russia, India, and the United States. In addition, some medications are produced locally in Kazakhstan. It is important to note that some medications may require a prescription from a doctor in order to be purchased," commented one expat living in Kazakhstan.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Kazakhstan?
"Kazakhstan has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical facilities and services available. Medical care is generally of a high standard, with many doctors and nurses having received training abroad. The country has a number of modern hospitals and clinics, as well as a network of primary care centers. The government has also invested heavily in medical research and development, resulting in a number of innovative treatments and technologies being available. In addition, the country has a number of private medical facilities, offering a range of services to those who can afford them," commented one expat who moved to Kazakhstan.
"The International Medical Center (IMC) has a few locations in town and provides Western style medical care, including radiology, ob/gyn, and orthopedics. There are specialists in different areas of medicine throughout the city. For severe emergencies, Dubai is a four hour flight away, and International Life Flight and AirMed provide service from Almaty," said one expat.
As a foreigner living in Kazakhstan, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Kazakhstan have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the region, but generally the public healthcare system is well-equipped and provides a wide range of services. The government has invested heavily in the healthcare system in recent years, and the country has a high number of qualified medical professionals. In addition, the cost of healthcare is relatively low compared to other countries, making it an attractive option for those living in Kazakhstan," wrote an expat living in Kazakhstan.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Kazakhstan if they have access to public healthcare in Kazakhstan. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"Kazakhstan's healthcare system has been responding to the pandemic in a variety of ways. The government has implemented a number of measures to protect citizens from the virus, including the introduction of a nationwide quarantine, the closure of schools and universities, and the suspension of public events. Additionally, the government has provided free testing and treatment for those who have contracted the virus, as well as free medical supplies and protective equipment for healthcare workers. Furthermore, the government has launched a number of public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the importance of social distancing and other preventive measures. Overall, the healthcare system in Kazakhstan has been responding to the pandemic in a comprehensive and effective manner," mentioned one expat in Kazakhstan.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Kazakhstan?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Kazakhstan about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the healthcare system in Kazakhstan before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who speaks your language and is familiar with the local medical system. Additionally, it is important to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations regarding childbirth and parenting. Make sure to have all the necessary documents and paperwork in order before the baby arrives. Finally, it is important to build a support network of family and friends who can help you during the pregnancy and after the baby is born," remarked one in Kazakhstan.
Are healthcare services good in Kazakhstan?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Kazakhstan. They wrote:
"Kazakhstan has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a wide range of services to its citizens. Primary healthcare is provided by a network of polyclinics and hospitals, while specialized care is available at regional and national medical centers. The government provides free healthcare to all citizens, including preventive care, vaccinations, and emergency services. In addition, Kazakhstan has a number of private healthcare providers that offer a variety of services, including specialized care and medical tourism. The country also has a number of international healthcare organizations that provide assistance to those in need," wrote a person living in Kazakhstan.
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.
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- What are medical services in Kazakhstan like?
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- What are emergency services like in Kazakhstan?
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- Are common prescription medications available in Kazakhstan?
- How are local medical facilities in Kazakhstan?
- As a foreigner living in Kazakhstan, 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?