Insider's Guide to the Health System in Albania

Albania's healthcare system is composed of both public and private healthcare providers. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and legal residents. The public healthcare system is known as the National Health Service (NHS) and provides free or low-cost healthcare services. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Albania, however, it is not widely used by foreigners. Public hospitals are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, however, the quality of care may vary.

Albania's Public Healthcare System

Albania's public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and legal residents. The public healthcare system is known as the National Health Service (NHS) and provides free or low-cost healthcare services. The public healthcare system is composed of a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers located throughout the country. The public healthcare system is generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, however, the quality of care may vary.

Albania's Private Healthcare System

Albania's private healthcare system is composed of a network of private hospitals, clinics, and health centers located throughout the country. Private healthcare services are typically more expensive than public healthcare services, however, the quality of care is generally higher. Expats primarily use private hospitals for medical care, and private hospitals are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.

Albania's Top Hospitals

Albania has several well-known hospitals, including:

• University Hospital Center "Mother Teresa" (public hospital, located in Tirana)
• University Hospital Center "Nene Tereza" (public hospital, located in Tirana)
• University Hospital Center "Shefqet Ndroqi" (public hospital, located in Tirana)
• American Hospital (private hospital, located in Tirana)
• Mediterranean Hospital (private hospital, located in Durres)
• University Hospital Center "Gjergj Fishta" (public hospital, located in Shkodra)

Health Insurance Companies in Albania

The most popular private health insurers in Albania are Europ Assistance, Allianz, and Bupa. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

Insider Tips from Expats in Albania: How to Navigate the Health System

"Albania has a public healthcare system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country also has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer more specialized services. The quality of medical care in Albania is generally good, with many doctors and nurses having received training abroad. The country has a number of modern medical facilities, including several state-of-the-art hospitals. In addition, Albania has a number of pharmacies that provide a wide range of medications," commented one member living in Albania.

"Healthcare services in Albania are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare in Albania is generally considered to be good, with a wide range of services available. Expats in Albania can access the public healthcare system by registering with the local health authority and obtaining a health card. This card allows them to access the same services as Albanian citizens, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. Expats may also choose to use private healthcare services, which are generally more expensive but offer a higher standard of care," commented one member living in Albania.