Insider's Guide to the Health System in Iceland

Iceland has a public healthcare system that is available to all citizens and residents of the country. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Iceland. The public healthcare system is used by both locals and foreigners, and is generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Iceland are well-equipped and provide quality care.

Iceland's Public Healthcare System

Iceland's public healthcare system is called Sjúkratryggingar Íslands (Icelandic Health Insurance). It is funded by taxes and provides free healthcare to all citizens and residents of Iceland. This includes access to general practitioners, specialists, hospital care, and prescription drugs.

Iceland's Private Healthcare System

In addition to the public healthcare system, Iceland also has a private healthcare system. Private healthcare is more expensive than public healthcare, but it is often faster and more convenient. Private hospitals in Iceland are well-equipped and provide quality care. Expats primarily use private hospitals, and they are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.

Iceland's Top Hospitals

The top hospitals in Iceland include:

• Landspítali University Hospital, Reykjavík (public)
• Reykjavík Hospital, Reykjavík (public)
• Akureyri Hospital, Akureyri (public)
• Kópavogur Health Center, Kópavogur (public)
• Reykjavík Eye Clinic, Reykjavík (private)
• Reykjavík Women's Clinic, Reykjavík (private)
• Reykjavík Orthopedic Clinic, Reykjavík (private)

Health Insurance Companies in Iceland

The most popular private health insurers in Iceland are VÍS, Sjúkraflokkar, and Sjúkratryggingar Íslands. These companies provide coverage for private medical care, including hospital stays, doctor visits, and prescription drugs. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, rather than specialized expat health insurance providers.

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

"Iceland has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides high quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a universal healthcare system that is funded by taxes and provides free healthcare to all citizens. Medical services in Iceland are provided by both public and private hospitals and clinics, and the country has a well-developed network of primary care physicians. Iceland also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for a variety of conditions. In addition, Iceland has a number of medical research centers that are dedicated to researching and developing new treatments and technologies," commented one member living in Iceland.

"Healthcare services in Iceland are provided by the public healthcare system, which is funded by the government and managed by the Icelandic Directorate of Health. The public healthcare system provides a wide range of services, including primary care, hospital care, mental health services, and preventive health services. The quality of public healthcare in Iceland is generally high, with a focus on preventive care and access to specialist services. Foreign residents in Iceland have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats in Iceland can use the public healthcare system by registering with the Icelandic Directorate of Health and paying a fee for services," commented one member living in Iceland.