How to Navigate the Health System in Belgium

Belgium has a public and private healthcare system that provides quality medical care to its citizens and expats. The public healthcare system in Belgium is called the National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance (RIZIV/INAMI). It is funded by taxes and provides free healthcare to Belgian citizens and legal residents. Foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Belgium, but they must pay for their medical care. The public healthcare system is used by both locals and foreigners, but it is not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery. Public hospitals in Belgium are generally well-equipped and provide quality care, but they may be overcrowded and have long wait times.

Belgium's Private Healthcare System

Belgium also has a private healthcare system that is used primarily by expats and digital nomads. Private healthcare is more expensive than public healthcare, but it is often faster and more convenient. Private hospitals in Belgium are well-equipped and provide quality care, and they are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. The most popular private health insurers in Belgium are DKV, Ethias, and Partena. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

Belgium's Top Hospitals

Some of the most well-known hospitals in Belgium include:

• University Hospital Leuven (public hospital, located in Leuven)
• University Hospital Antwerp (public hospital, located in Antwerp)
• University Hospital Ghent (public hospital, located in Ghent)
• Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc (private hospital, located in Brussels)
• Clinique de l'Europe (private hospital, located in Brussels)
• Clinique de la Chirurgie Esthétique (private hospital, located in Brussels, specializes in cosmetic surgery)

Health Insurance Companies in Belgium

The most popular private health insurers in Belgium are DKV, Ethias, and Partena. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

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

"Belgium has a well-developed healthcare system that provides high-quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a wide range of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. Belgium also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for specific conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders. In addition, Belgium has a number of medical research centers that are dedicated to researching and developing new treatments and therapies," commented one member living in Belgium.

"Belgium offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and mental health services. The public healthcare system in Belgium is funded by the government and is generally of high quality. Foreign residents are eligible to use the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for certain services. Expats in Belgium can use the public healthcare system by registering with their local commune and obtaining a Belgian health insurance card. This card allows them to access the same healthcare services as Belgian citizens, including free or discounted care," commented one member living in Belgium.