Tirana has a public and private healthcare system. The public healthcare system is called the National Health Service (NHS) and is used by both locals and foreigners. People generally recommend using public hospitals in Tirana for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Tirana are generally well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Albania. However, many expats prefer to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery due to the shorter wait times and more personalized care. Private hospitals in Tirana are typically well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Tirana
The most popular hospitals and clinics for expats in Tirana are:
- University Hospital Center “Mother Teresa” (public): Located in the center of Tirana, this hospital is the largest and most well-equipped in the city. It specializes in emergency care, surgery, and obstetrics.
- American Hospital (private): Located in the center of Tirana, this hospital is well-equipped and specializes in emergency care, surgery, and obstetrics.
- Tirana Medical Center (private): Located in the center of Tirana, this hospital is well-equipped and specializes in emergency care, surgery, and obstetrics.
Emergency Services in Tirana
Tirana has an ambulance service that can be called by dialing 127. Ambulances typically arrive quickly, but there can be delays due to traffic or other factors.
Health Insurance Companies in Tirana
The most popular private health insurers in Tirana are BKT, SIGAL, and ALBKOS. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although some may opt for specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in Tirana: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Tirana 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 be surprised at how far your money can go here. There are some sacrifices you might have to make, but overall, I think you’ll find it quite manageable.First, let’s talk about housing. There are plenty of affordable neighborhoods in Tirana where you can find a nice apartment or house for a reasonable price. Some of the more affordable areas include Kombinat, Ali Demi, and Selita. You can find a decent two-bedroom apartment in these areas for around $300 to $400 a month. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more upscale, you might want to check out neighborhoods like Blloku or the Artificial Lake area. These are more expensive, with rents for a two-bedroom apartment ranging from $600 to $1,000 a month, but they’re also more modern and have better amenities.As for transportation, public transport in Tirana is quite cheap, with a one-way ticket on a bus costing around $0.30. Taxis are also relatively affordable, with a 5 km ride costing around $5. If you prefer to drive, you can find a decent used car for around $5,000 to $10,000, and gasoline prices are around $1.50 per liter.When it comes to groceries and eating out, you’ll find that prices are quite reasonable. A meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost you around $10 to $15 per person, while a meal at a more upscale restaurant might set you back around $30 to $40 per person. Groceries are also quite affordable, with a loaf of bread costing around $0.50 and a dozen eggs costing around $1.50.As for entertainment, there are plenty of things to do in Tirana that won’t break the bank. You can catch a movie at a local cinema for around $5, or enjoy a night out at a bar or club for around $20 to $30 per person. There are also plenty of parks, museums, and cultural events to enjoy, many of which are free or have a low entrance fee.In terms of sacrifices, you might find that some of the modern amenities you’re used to aren’t as readily available in Tirana. For example, high-speed internet can be a bit spotty in some areas, and you might have to deal with occasional power outages. Additionally, while there are plenty of international brands and products available, you might not find everything you’re used to from back home.Overall, I think you’ll find that living in Tirana on $5,000 a month is quite doable, and you can still enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with modern amenities. Just be prepared to make a few adjustments and be open to exploring the local culture and way of life,” commented an expat living in Tirana.
