Essential Guide to the Health System in Turkey

Turkey has a public and private healthcare system, both of which are available to foreigners. The public healthcare system is called the Social Security Institution (SSI) and is funded by the government. It is used by both locals and foreigners, and is generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Turkey are generally well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals.

Turkey's Public Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Turkey is funded by the government and is available to both locals and foreigners. It is called the Social Security Institution (SSI) and covers a wide range of medical services, including hospital stays, doctor visits, and prescription drugs. The cost of public healthcare is relatively low, and most people can access it for free or at a discounted rate.

Turkey's Private Healthcare System

Turkey also has a private healthcare system, which is used primarily by expats and digital nomads. Private healthcare is more expensive than public healthcare, but it is generally of a higher quality. Private hospitals in Turkey are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. Private healthcare is recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.

Turkey's Top Hospitals

Turkey has a number of top-rated hospitals, both public and private. Some of the most well-known hospitals include:

• Acibadem Hospital (private, Istanbul)
• Memorial Hospital (private, Ankara)
• American Hospital (private, Istanbul)
• Hacettepe University Hospital (public, Ankara)
• Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty Hospital (public, Istanbul)
• Ankara University Hospital (public, Ankara)
• Istanbul Memorial Hospital (private, Istanbul)
• Istanbul Medipol University Hospital (private, Istanbul)

Health Insurance Companies in Turkey

The most popular private health insurers in Turkey are Anadolu Sigorta, Allianz Sigorta, and Güven Sigorta. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans, including basic coverage and comprehensive coverage. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

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

"Turkey has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. The country has a network of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide quality care. Many of the public hospitals are equipped with the latest medical technology and staffed by highly trained medical professionals. Private hospitals and clinics offer a range of services, including specialized care, and often provide more personalized care than public hospitals. In addition, Turkey has a number of medical tourism destinations, where people from around the world come to receive medical treatment," commented one member living in Turkey.

"It's is essential that you have health care insurance. Axa as far as I know is the only company that will insure you over the age of 70. This is only possible if you had had a policy with them from I believe 65 years old," commented one expat living in Istanbul, Turkey.

"Healthcare services in Turkey 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 Turkey is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for certain services. Expats in Turkey can use the public healthcare system by registering with the local health authority and obtaining a health insurance card. This card allows them to access public healthcare services at a reduced cost," mentioned one expat living in Turkey.