15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in 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," wrote one expat.

"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 who moved to Istanbul.

"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 expat who moved to Turkey.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Turkey can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, public healthcare is provided free of charge, but private healthcare can be costly. Health insurance is also available, but premiums can be expensive, and coverage may not be comprehensive. Additionally, many people in Turkey are not able to afford health insurance, leaving them with limited access to healthcare," said an expat in Turkey.

"There are several hospitals near where I live. These however are private ones. I myself use Baskent University hospital, which I have found very good. Also their prices are more reasonable than some of the others. The care I received there has been first class. Also there is no long waiting time if you require an operation. As for emergency services, my wife received treatment with only a short wait to see a doctor, apart from that I cannot say," said an expat in Istanbul.

"In Turkey, emergency services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 112 from any phone. This number is free of charge and connects you to the emergency services. The operator will ask for your location and the nature of the emergency, and will then dispatch an ambulance to the scene," commented one expat living in Turkey.

"Before living in Istanbul I lived near Kemer with my going to Antalya for treatment. I have had two operations there and was well pleased with the medical services received," said one expat living in Istanbul.

"Istanbul is widely regarded as having the best selection of medical specialists in Turkey. The city is home to some of the country's most renowned hospitals and clinics, such as Memorial Hospital, Ac?badem Hospital, and American Hospital. Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is also home to a number of excellent medical facilities, including Hacettepe University Hospital and Güven Hospital. Other cities with a good selection of medical specialists include Izmir, Bursa, and Antalya. Additionally, the coastal areas of Turkey, such as the Aegean and Mediterranean regions, are known for their excellent medical care," mentioned one expat in Turkey.

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Turkey. Most medications can be purchased at pharmacies without a prescription, although some require a prescription from a doctor. The Turkish government regulates the sale of prescription medications, and all medications must be approved by the Ministry of Health before they can be sold. In addition, the government has implemented a system of price controls to ensure that medications are affordable for all citizens," mentioned one expat in Turkey.

"Yes. You can purchase most prescription medicines in the pharmacy's that are easily found. In general you do not require a prescription except for dangerous class drugs like morphine. The cost of medicines are far cheaper than in various other Euopean countries. I have never had a problem buying medicines here in Turkey where I have lived for over 20 years," commented one expat who moved to Istanbul, Turkey.

"Medical facilities and medical care in Turkey are generally of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of modern hospitals and clinics providing a range of services. The country also has a number of highly-trained medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and specialists, who are able to provide excellent care. In addition, the cost of medical care in Turkey is generally lower than in many other countries, making it an attractive option for those seeking medical treatment," wrote an expat living in Turkey.

"Yes, foreigners living in Turkey have access to public healthcare. The quality of care is generally good, with many hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of services. The cost of care is also relatively low compared to other countries, making it an attractive option for those looking for affordable healthcare. Additionally, the Turkish government has implemented a number of initiatives to improve access to healthcare for all citizens, including foreigners," wrote an expat living in Turkey.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Turkey. The government has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety of healthcare workers and patients, including the introduction of telemedicine services, the provision of protective equipment, and the implementation of social distancing protocols. Despite these measures, the healthcare system has been overwhelmed by the influx of patients, leading to long wait times and overcrowding in hospitals. Additionally, the pandemic has caused a shortage of medical supplies, such as masks and ventilators, which has further strained the healthcare system. Despite these challenges, the healthcare system in Turkey has been able to provide quality care to those in need," commented one expat living in Turkey.