Norway
15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Norway
Last updated on Mar 02, 2023
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's healthcare system is comprehensive and well-funded. Healthcare services in Norway are publicly funded and include both preventative treatments, such as vaccinations, and healthcare facilities staffed by experienced professionals. These services can be accessed through both hospital visits and visits to primary care practitioners. The quality of public healthcare in Norway is high, with a strong focus on preventative medicine and universal access. Foreign residents, including expatriates, are able to access the public healthcare system in Norway through European Health Insurance Cards or proof of Norwegian identity, such as residence permits. Expats in Norway can use public healthcare to access medical treatment and services, as long as they carry their European Health Insurance Card with them. The Norwegian government also offers subsidies for private health insurance plans and other treatments," commented one expat who moved to 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," said one expat.
What are medical services in Norway like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Norway, they replied:
"In Norway, medical services are widely available and of high quality. Medical care is provided by both public and private providers. The public system offers universal healthcare coverage, with services largely funded by government taxation. Primary care services are provided, with access to specialist services available through referrals from general practitioners. Norway also has a number of internationally recognized hospitals and specialist medical centers. These provide advanced treatments, including those based on new technologies, as well as a wide range of medical procedures and services. Norway's medical professionals are highly trained and many are trained abroad. A range of preventive health services are available, including immunization and screening services, as well as efforts to educate the public about health risks," said one expat.
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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Norway?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Norway are relatively expensive compared to other countries. Public insurance is mandatory, and the government provides subsidised healthcare to its citizens, however many out-of-pocket payments such as dental and vision care, medications, and even hospital services may be required. Private health insurers are available in Norway for those who want to cover any additional care that is not covered by the public system, however these private plans are generally quite expensive," remarked one expat in Norway.
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What are emergency services like in Norway?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Norway wrote:
"In Norway, emergency services are highly respected and organized. Emergency services personnel in Norway are divided into police, fire, and medical. In the event of an emergency, Norwegians will call 112 to contact the emergency services. Ambulance services can be requested by calling 113. All calls can be made in Norwegian or in English. Emergency service personnel are highly trained, and will respond quickly to any call," remarked one expat living in Norway.
"A few minutes from (public) Ullevål hospital and fairly near the public ER (legevakt). It's a bit of a nightmare really, the standard of care is shockingly bad, especially considering the amount of money in the healthcare system per capita (the only two things that are strikingly good are the food in Norwegian hospitals, really very good, and the general state of repair of the hospitals. Overall the quality of care at Ullevål hospital and legevakt is very bad indeed: unprofessional, discharging patients too early, missing serious illness, accidentally giving medicines that someone is allergic to, ignoring me when I am in a corridor on a hospital bed and referring to me only as "hun innvandre der" ("that immigrant there"), an ambulance missing the signs of severe concussion, very poorly trained and unprofessional ambulance personnel, no adequate triage system at the ER (legevakt). If you have a chronic illness then do not move to Norway without paying for private care. When mistakes are made then there is no accountability and lassitude seems to be permissible, I have had a terrible time with the healthcare system and it is one of the very worst aspects of living here- for me, perhaps the worst," said one expat living in Oslo.
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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"In Norway, some of the cities and areas with the best selection of medical specialists include Oslo and its surrounding areas, Trondheim, Bergen, and the county of Vestfold. The cities of Stavanger and Kristiansand also boast impressive medical specialist networks. Additionally, Norway has a number of university hospitals and smaller private hospitals that provide extensive medical resources and excellent care," wrote an expat living in Norway.
Are common prescription medications available in Norway?
"Prescription medications are widely available in Norway. Pharmacies are the main source of these medications, although a doctor's prescription is usually needed. Many drugs are subsidized by the Norwegian government, meaning they are available more cheaply than normal. Other medications may be purchased over the counter. In addition, Norwegian pharmacies are required to provide certain essential medications for free," said one expat living in Norway.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Norway?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Norway are of a very high quality. The country is known for its excellent medical professionals, highly-developed infrastructure, and plentiful resources for medical research and development. Norway has an efficient and comprehensive national health and social service system which is both comprehensive and cost-effective. The country is also renowned for its high-tech medical equipment and a wide network of healthcare professionals such as general practitioners, specialists, pharmacy staff, and others. The country has also undertaken many initiatives to improve its healthcare system, such as developing strategies for health promotion, preventive measures, and the provision of specialized services," commented one expat living in Norway.
As a foreigner living in Norway, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Norway, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Norway is among the best in the world, providing easy access to quality care from professional and experienced staff. The Norwegian healthcare system strives to ensure that all citizens and residents have equal access to healthcare services, regardless of their income or place of residence. You may receive subsidized care or be offered care free of charge depending on your circumstances. The majority of basic services are free, including doctor's consultations, hospitalization, immunization, and maternity care, while some services may require co-payments or payment in full," wrote an expat living in Norway.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Norway if they have access to public healthcare in Norway. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"My experience with the Norwegian healthcare system during the pandemic has been mostly positive. I appreciate that they have consistently taken safety precautions to protect their staff and patients, like screening appointments, providing protective gear, and limiting contact between patients and healthcare workers. In addition, they have provided good and timely advice on how to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus. I am grateful for their commitment to keeping the Norwegian community safe and healthy during this difficult time," commented one expat who moved to Norway.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Norway?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Norway about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"First of all, make sure to take some time to familiarize yourself with birthing practices in Norway and the resources available to you. Secondly, find a maternity health care provider you trust and become familiar with the hospital or birth center you will be using. Thirdly, it's important to research the costs of giving birth in Norway and the options for health insurance coverage. Lastly, make sure to look into the individual rights and responsibilities associated with being a parent in Norway. Taking these steps will help you to prepare for bringing a new life into the world and adjusting to your new country at the same time," remarked one in Norway.
"If she were able to have a natural child birth, I would say 'go for it'. If she knew up front that she needed a c-section or there could be any complications, I would say 'run'," explained one expat.
Are healthcare services good in Norway?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Norway. They wrote:
"In Norway, health care services are known for being universal, comprehensive and of high quality. All permanent residents are covered by the state health care system and are eligible for a variety of health services, including primary and specialist care, hospital services, and preventive health services. Certain services such as dental care, physiotherapy and some medicines are not covered and must be paid for out of pocket. Norway also offers free or low-cost medical, nursing, and occupational therapy services to children with special needs or disabilities," explained one expat living in Norway.
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.
