Top Hospitals in Croatia by Specialty
Summary: If you're moving to Croatia or recently arrived, it's important to know about the country's top hospitals for specific medical conditions. Here's a primer.
Croatia offers a mix of public and private healthcare facilities, with the public healthcare system being accessible to all Croatian citizens and residents, including expats who are registered. While the public hospitals are well-equipped and staffed with skilled healthcare professionals, some expats and international retirees may prefer private hospitals for their shorter wait times and more luxurious amenities. However, for certain specialized treatments and surgeries, the options may be more limited compared to larger countries. In some cases, expats and travelers might choose to return to their home countries for highly specialized care that may not be as readily available in Croatia. Nonetheless, Croatia boasts several top-tier hospitals that are renowned for their expertise in various medical fields.
Top Hospitals in Croatia for Heart Surgery and Chronic Heart Conditions
The University Hospital Centre Zagreb (KBC Zagreb) is one of the leading facilities for heart surgery and the treatment of chronic heart conditions. Located in the capital city of Zagreb, it is the largest hospital in Croatia and is known for its comprehensive cardiac care programs. Another notable institution is the University Hospital Centre Split, which also provides excellent care for patients with cardiovascular diseases.
Best Hospitals for Cancer Care in Croatia
For cancer care, the University Hospital Centre Zagreb stands out with its specialized oncology department. Additionally, the Clinical Hospital Dubrava in Zagreb is well-regarded for its cancer treatment programs. These hospitals are equipped with modern technology and staffed by experienced oncologists who offer a range of services from diagnosis to advanced treatments.
Leading Hospitals with Neonatal Intensive Care Units
The University Hospital Centre Zagreb and the University Hospital Centre Split are both equipped with state-of-the-art neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). These facilities are prepared to provide high-level care for premature and critically ill newborns, ensuring they receive the best possible start in life.
Top Hospitals in Croatia for Diabetes Management
The Vuk Vrhovac University Clinic for Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolic Diseases in Zagreb is a specialized institution dedicated to the treatment and management of diabetes. It is recognized for its comprehensive approach to diabetes care, including education, nutrition counseling, and advanced treatment options.
Best Hospitals for Kidney Treatment and Care
The Merkur University Hospital in Zagreb is known for its nephrology department and offers a wide range of services for kidney treatment and care, including dialysis and kidney transplants. Its team of specialists is experienced in managing various kidney-related conditions.
Top Hospitals in Croatia for Neurology
The Department of Neurology at the University Hospital Centre Zagreb is one of the top choices for neurological care in Croatia. It provides comprehensive services for a variety of neurological disorders and is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools.
Best Hospitals for Stroke Treatment
Stroke treatment is a priority at the University Hospital Centre Rijeka, which has a dedicated stroke unit. This hospital is known for its rapid response and treatment of stroke patients, which is critical for minimizing the long-term effects of a stroke.
Leading Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery
The Lovran Orthopedic Hospital, located in the coastal town of Lovran, is a renowned center for orthopedic surgery in Croatia. It specializes in joint replacement and spine surgery and is known for its experienced surgeons and rehabilitation programs.
Top Hospitals in Croatia for Pediatric Care
The Children's Hospital Zagreb is the main pediatric hospital in Croatia, offering a wide range of medical services for children, from general pediatrics to specialized surgeries. It is staffed by a team of pediatricians and pediatric specialists who are dedicated to providing high-quality care for the youngest patients.
Other Specialized Hospitals in Croatia
For other specialized treatments, such as ophthalmology, the Svjetlost Clinic in Zagreb is a private hospital known for its expertise in eye surgeries, including cataract and refractive surgery. For rehabilitation and physical therapy, the Thalassotherapia Opatija is a specialized institution that offers treatments for various conditions, including musculoskeletal and neurological disorders.
Expats and international retirees in Croatia should be aware that while the country has excellent healthcare facilities, language barriers can sometimes be an issue. It is advisable to seek hospitals with English-speaking staff or to have a translator available for more complex medical discussions. Additionally, it's important to have comprehensive health insurance that covers medical treatments in Croatia, as some specialized procedures can be costly.
About the Author
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.
Additional Information:
- Croatia Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Croatia
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Croatia
- Best Places to Live in Croatia
- Real Estate in Croatia
- Guide to Real Estate in Croatia
- Pros & Cons of Living in Croatia
- Cost of Living in Croatia
- Croatia's Digital Nomad Visa
- 8 Best Places to Live in Croatia
- Croatia Visa & Residency
- Croatia's Temporary Stay Visa and Biometric Residence Permit
- 2024 Guide to Living in Croatia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Croatia 2024