15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Norway
Last updated on Mar 10, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in Norway is generally considered to be very high, with a strong emphasis on preventative care. Norway has a universal healthcare system, which means that all citizens have access to free healthcare services. In comparison to the US, Norway has a lower rate of infant mortality, a higher life expectancy, and a lower rate of chronic diseases. Emergency services in Norway are well-developed and reliable. In the event of an emergency, you can call the national emergency number, 113, to request an ambulance. Ambulance services are free of charge and are typically staffed by highly trained medical personnel.
How are healthcare services Norway?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Norway, they replied:
"Norway has a comprehensive public healthcare system that provides a wide range of services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, mental health services, and preventive health services. The quality of public healthcare in Norway is generally high, with a focus on preventive care and patient-centered care. Foreign residents in Norway have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats in Norway can use the public healthcare system by registering with a local doctor and obtaining a health insurance card. This card allows them to access the same services as Norwegian citizens, including free or discounted doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications," remarked one expat in Norway.
"Don't. Pay for private. The laid-back laissez faire attitude that seems appealing when talking to Norwegians in coffee shops is quite the opposite when you are ill and need healthcare. There is no accountability and often gross errors," remarked one expat living in Oslo.
What are medical services in Norway like?
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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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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.
Get Quote
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.
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.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Norway?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Norway?
- Will I be able to find a job in Norway?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Norway appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Norway?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Norway accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Norway like?
- How are healthcare services in Norway?
- What are medical services in Norway like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Norway?
- What are emergency services like in Norway?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Norway?
- How are local medical facilities in Norway?
- As a foreigner living in Norway, 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?