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Expat Exchange - Health Care in Akranes 2024
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Health Care in Akranes

By Betsy Burlingame

William Russell
William Russell

Summary: Learn about the health system in Akranes: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Akranes.

The healthcare system in Akranes is a blend of public and private services. The public healthcare system, known as Heilsugæsla, is widely used by both locals and foreigners, while private healthcare services are also available for those who prefer them.

Iceland's Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Iceland, Heilsugæsla, is a comprehensive system that provides a wide range of medical services to all residents, including foreigners. It is generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, as the public hospitals in Akranes are well-equipped and staffed by highly trained medical professionals. The experience at a public hospital in Akranes is typically positive, with high standards of care and professionalism. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Iceland. However, some expats may choose to use private hospitals for their healthcare needs. Private hospitals in Akranes are also recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, and they offer a high standard of care, similar to the public hospitals.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Akranes

There are several healthcare facilities in Akranes that are recommended for expats. These include:

  • Heilsugæsla Akranes - a public healthcare center located in the heart of Akranes.
  • Akranes Hospital - a public hospital that provides a wide range of medical services.
If there are no suitable facilities in Akranes, expats typically travel to the capital city, Reykjavik, for specialized medical care and surgeries. The Landspitali University Hospital in Reykjavik is approximately an hour's drive from Akranes.

Emergency Services in Akranes

Ambulance services are available in Akranes. In case of an emergency, you can call 112, the national emergency number. The response time is generally quick, but there may be occasional delays depending on the situation and location.

Health Insurance Companies in Akranes

There are several popular private health insurance companies in Akranes, including Sjova-Almennar, TM Insurance, and VÍS. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans to suit different needs and budgets. While some expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurance providers, many prefer to use specialized expat health insurance providers that offer coverage internationally.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


William Russell
William Russell

William Russell
William Russell

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