15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Ukraine

"I don't know if I can give advice concerning medical centers as long as I need medical help not that often. Here I can share my experience in medical treatment in Kyiv or Kiev. For me it was necessary whether the clinic works with International insurance companies and in which way. I was suggested to pay myself and then make the reimbursement of the expenses. I was given all the necessary documents and didn't have any trouble with my insurance company," remarked one expat living in Kiev.

"If you travel in Ukraine make sure you have real good international health insurance. I had a kidney stone attack and had to fly to New York for my surgery at the V.A. (Veterans Hospital) which the service is totally free. I am receiving 100% disability from the V.A. so all my medicals costs are paid by the V.A. including medicines," said one expat living in Kiev.

"Healthcare services in Ukraine are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens of Ukraine. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of a lower standard than private healthcare. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, however, they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Ukraine typically use private healthcare services, as they are more reliable and of a higher quality. However, some expats may choose to use the public healthcare system if they are unable to afford private healthcare," mentioned one expat in Ukraine.

"Pharmacies are everywhere in a city, on every corner. Which is great, but i suggest not to end up in a hospital. They stink. Literally as well," wrote an expat living in Kiev.

"Ukraine has a well-developed healthcare system, providing a wide range of medical services. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a variety of treatments and procedures. Ukraine also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for specific conditions. In addition, Ukraine has a number of private medical facilities that offer a range of services, including cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and other medical treatments. Ukraine also has a number of pharmacies that provide medications and other medical supplies," said an expat in Ukraine.

"I was extremely surprised when the administrator at IMP clinic contacted the insurance company herself, and I didn't have to call and deal with it. I was suggested to pay myself and then make the reimbursement of the expenses. I was given all the necessary documents and didn't have any trouble with my insurance company. From my viewpoint any other public clinic will render such services," wrote an expat living in Kiev.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Ukraine can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, public healthcare is free or low-cost, but the quality of care may not be as high as in private clinics. Private health insurance can be expensive, but it can provide access to better quality care and more specialized services. Additionally, many employers offer health insurance plans for their employees, which can help to reduce the cost of healthcare," said an expat in Ukraine.

"In Kiev, there are several hospitals, but one must pay "before" any service is granted! You need to have a good medical interpreter to help you with the doctors and nurses. I was lucky since my friend is an American/Ukrainian and did all of the translation for me," commented one expat who moved to Kiev.

"I have visited the IMP clinic in Kyiv and was surprised by that fact, that all the staff spoke English! This clinic is private and I think this is the reason why the quality of the services was high. The doctor who examined me was very experienced in her job and I was treated very well. I was extremely surprised when the administrator contacted the insurance company herself, and I didn't have to call and deal with it. I was suggested to pay myself and then make the reimbursement of the expenses. I was given all the necessary documents and didn't have any trouble with my insurance company. From my viewpoint any other public clinic will render such services," said one expat.

"Emergency services in Ukraine are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial the emergency number 112. This number is free of charge and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The operator will ask for the caller's location and the nature of the emergency, and will then dispatch an ambulance to the scene," remarked one expat in Ukraine.

"Usually I contact my insurance company and they advise me the clinic in that area. But anyway I look for it on the Internet and read the comments of the clients,," said one expat living in Kiev.

"Most of medicine that I usually need I can buy without prescription at the pharmacy. But after visiting the doctor I was prescribed some pills and the doctor gave me the prescription for them. I can't say the medicine was very expensive," wrote one expat.

"Yes, they are but I always take my own!! I never buy from a local pharmacy and usually buy a German prescription. I don't trust a Ukrainian pharmacy," commented one expat who moved to Kiev.

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Ukraine. Most pharmacies in Ukraine carry a wide range of medications, including those used to treat common illnesses and conditions. Many of these medications are available over the counter, while others require a prescription from a doctor. In addition, some medications may be available in generic form, which can be more affordable than the brand-name versions," said one expat.

"Medical facilities and medical care in Ukraine are generally of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. Doctors and nurses are highly trained and experienced, and the quality of care is comparable to that of other European countries. Ukraine also has a number of modern hospitals and clinics, equipped with the latest medical technology. In addition, the cost of medical care in Ukraine is generally lower than in other European countries," said an expat in Ukraine.

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Ukraine, you will have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the region, but generally the public healthcare system is well-equipped and staffed with experienced professionals. The cost of care is usually quite affordable, and there are a variety of services available, including primary care, emergency care, and specialist care," remarked one expat living in Ukraine.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Ukraine. Many hospitals have been overwhelmed with the influx of patients, leading to long wait times and limited access to medical care. The government has implemented a number of measures to help alleviate the strain on the healthcare system, including providing additional funding for medical personnel and equipment, as well as expanding access to telemedicine services. Despite these efforts, the healthcare system in Ukraine is still struggling to cope with the pandemic, and many people are still unable to access the care they need," said one expat.