The healthcare system in Berat consists of both public and private facilities. While the public healthcare system is accessible to foreigners, many expats and digital nomads prefer to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries.
Albania’s Healthcare System
Albania’s public healthcare system, known as the Health Insurance Institute (HII), provides basic medical services to citizens and foreigners alike. However, public hospitals in Berat are often overcrowded and underfunded, leading to long waiting times and limited resources. For serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, many people recommend using private hospitals instead. Private hospitals in Berat offer better facilities, more specialized care, and shorter waiting times. Expats and digital nomads are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Albania, but they often choose private hospitals for their healthcare needs.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Berat
Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Berat include:
- Regional Hospital of Berat (public) – Located in the city center, this hospital provides general medical services.
- Intermed Hospital (private) – A private hospital offering a range of medical services, including emergency care and specialized treatments.
- Poliklinika Berat (private) – A private clinic providing various healthcare services, including dental care and diagnostic tests.
Emergency Services in Berat
There are ambulance services available in Berat. To call for an ambulance, dial 127. However, response times can be slow, and it is not uncommon for delays to occur. In case of an emergency, it may be faster to arrange private transportation to the nearest hospital or clinic.
Health Insurance Companies in Berat
Popular private health insurance companies in Berat include Sigal UNIQA Group Austria and SIGMA Interalbanian Vienna Insurance Group. These companies offer various health insurance plans tailored to the needs of individuals and families. Expats and digital nomads living in Berat may choose to use these local insurance providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers that cater to their specific needs.
Insider Tips from Expats in Berat: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Berat for a while now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. In fact, you might find that you can enjoy a higher standard of living here than in many other places, given the relatively low cost of living.One of the first things you’ll want to consider is where to live. There are a few neighborhoods that are more expensive, like the historic Mangalem district, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s beautiful, but the cost of living there can be higher due to its popularity with tourists. On the other hand, neighborhoods like Gorica and Kala are more affordable and still offer a good quality of life. Gorica, in particular, is a great option as it’s a quiet residential area with a mix of old and new houses, and it’s just across the river from the city center.As for sacrifices, you might find that some modern amenities aren’t as readily available as you’re used to. For example, high-speed internet can be a bit spotty in some areas, and you might not have access to the same variety of international products at the grocery store. However, these are relatively minor inconveniences, and you’ll likely find that the benefits of living in Berat far outweigh any drawbacks.In terms of entertainment and dining, there are plenty of options to suit a variety of budgets. You can find affordable local restaurants serving delicious Albanian cuisine, as well as more upscale options if you’re in the mood for something fancier. There are also plenty of cafes, bars, and cultural events to keep you entertained.Overall, I think you’ll find that living in Berat on $5,000 a month is not only doable but can actually be quite comfortable. Just be prepared to adapt to some minor differences in terms of available amenities, and you’ll likely find that you enjoy your time here,” commented an expat living in Berat.
