Understanding the Health System in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan has a public healthcare system that is funded by the government and is available to all citizens. The public healthcare system is called the National Health System of the Republic of Kazakhstan and is free for citizens. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Kazakhstan, however, it is not widely used by foreigners. Public hospitals are generally not recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as the quality of care is not as high as private hospitals. Public hospitals in Kazakhstan are often overcrowded and lack the latest medical technology.

Kazakhstan's Private Healthcare System

Kazakhstan also has a private healthcare system that is funded by private insurance companies. Private hospitals in Kazakhstan are much more modern and offer a higher quality of care than public hospitals. Expats primarily use private hospitals, as they are more reliable and offer better medical care. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are better equipped to handle these types of medical issues.

Kazakhstan's Top Hospitals

Kazakhstan has several top hospitals that are known for providing excellent medical care. These include:

• National Scientific Medical Center (public hospital, located in Almaty)
• Karaganda Regional Clinical Hospital (public hospital, located in Karaganda)
• Kazakh National Medical University (public hospital, located in Almaty)
• Kazakhstan Institute of Oncology and Radiology (public hospital, located in Almaty)
• Kazakhstan Cardiology Center (private hospital, located in Almaty)
• Kazakhstan Eye Microsurgery Center (private hospital, located in Almaty)

Health Insurance Companies in Kazakhstan

The most popular private health insurers in Kazakhstan are BTA Insurance, Halyk Insurance, and Kazkommerts Insurance. These companies offer a variety of health insurance plans for individuals and families. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

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

"Kazakhstan has a well-developed healthcare system, providing a wide range of medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a variety of treatments and services, including general medical care, specialized care, and emergency services. The country also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized treatments such as oncology, cardiology, and neurology. In addition, Kazakhstan has a number of private medical facilities that offer a range of services, including cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and alternative medicine," commented one member living in Kazakhstan.

"Kazakhstan offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive care. The public healthcare system in Kazakhstan is funded by the government and is available to all citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Kazakhstan is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained medical staff. Foreign residents in Kazakhstan have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Kazakhstan can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition, many expats opt to purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," commented one member living in Kazakhstan.