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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Macedonia | Expat Exchange
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City Center Square in Skopje, Macedonia

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Macedonia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Sep 12, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Macedonia is generally considered to be lower than in the United States. Emergency services are available, but may not be as reliable or as well-equipped as those in the US. To call for an ambulance in Macedonia, you can dial the emergency number 112.

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How are healthcare services Macedonia?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Macedonia, they replied:

"Macedonia has a public healthcare system that provides basic healthcare services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Macedonia is generally considered to be good, with a wide range of services available. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Macedonia can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition, there are also private healthcare providers in Macedonia that offer more comprehensive services, although these are usually more expensive than the public system," wrote one expat.

What are medical services in Macedonia like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Macedonia, they replied:

"Macedonia has a well-developed healthcare system, providing a range of medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of public and private hospitals, clinics, and health centers, offering a variety of medical services including general practice, specialist care, and emergency services. The country also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as those for cancer treatment, cardiology, and neurology. In addition, Macedonia has a number of pharmacies, providing access to a range of medications. The country also has a number of health insurance schemes, allowing citizens to access medical services at a reduced cost," remarked one expat in Macedonia.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Macedonia?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Macedonia can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, public healthcare is available at a lower cost than private healthcare, but the quality of care may not be as high. Health insurance is also available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, many people in Macedonia are not able to afford health insurance, leaving them with limited access to healthcare," said one expat.

What are emergency services like in Macedonia?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Macedonia wrote:

"In Macedonia, emergency services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To call for an ambulance, you can dial the emergency number 112. The ambulance will be dispatched to the location of the emergency and will provide medical assistance. The ambulance service is free of charge and is available to all citizens of Macedonia," mentioned one expat in Macedonia.

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, is home to some of the best medical specialists in the country. The city is home to a number of hospitals and clinics, as well as a number of specialized medical centers. Additionally, the city of Bitola is also known for its excellent selection of medical specialists, with a number of hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of services. Other cities in Macedonia with a good selection of medical specialists include Ohrid, Struga, and Kumanovo," wrote one expat.

Are common prescription medications available in Macedonia?

"Prescription medications are available in Macedonia, although the availability of certain medications may vary depending on the region. Generally, most common medications are available in pharmacies throughout the country. However, some medications may require a prescription from a doctor or may not be available at all. Additionally, some medications may be available in generic form, while others may only be available in brand name form," said one expat living in Macedonia.

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Macedonia?

"Macedonia has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical facilities and services available. Medical care is generally of a high standard, with a range of modern medical equipment and highly trained medical professionals. The country also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Institute of Oncology and Radiology of Macedonia, which provide advanced treatments for cancer and other serious illnesses. In addition, the country has a number of private clinics and hospitals that offer quality medical care," said an expat in Macedonia.

As a foreigner living in Macedonia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, foreigners living in Macedonia have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the region, but overall the healthcare system is considered to be of good quality. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and legal residents. The public healthcare system includes hospitals, clinics, and primary care centers, as well as specialized services such as mental health and dental care. The public healthcare system also provides access to medications and treatments, although some of these may require a co-payment," mentioned one expat in Macedonia.

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Macedonia if they have access to public healthcare in Macedonia. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the local healthcare system in Macedonia. The healthcare system has been overwhelmed with the influx of patients, leading to long wait times and limited access to medical care. The government has implemented strict measures to contain the spread of the virus, including the closure of some medical facilities and the restriction of movement. Despite these measures, the healthcare system has been struggling to cope with the increased demand for medical services. Additionally, the lack of resources and personnel has made it difficult for the healthcare system to provide adequate care to those in need," commented one expat living in Macedonia.

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Macedonia?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Macedonia about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"1. Make sure to research the healthcare system in Macedonia and find a doctor or midwife that you trust and feel comfortable with. 2. Consider taking a childbirth education class to learn more about the birthing process and what to expect. 3. Ask other expats in the area for advice and support. 4. Make sure to have a plan for after the baby is born, such as childcare and transportation. 5. Familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations regarding maternity leave and other benefits. 6. Take time to explore the country and get to know the culture and customs. 7. Have a support system in place to help you adjust to life with a newborn. 8. Take advantage of the many resources available to expats in Macedonia," said one person in Macedonia.

"I'd recommend my same doctors and hospital. It couldn't have been a more perfect experience. I'd make sure the friend had an idea of post partum depression however. This was never addressed and I was completely in shock when I felt as I did after my child was born. Macedonia does not have a strong network for supporting the emotional and psychological needs of new mothers," remarked one expat in Skopje.

Are healthcare services good in Macedonia?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Macedonia. They wrote:

"Macedonia has a public healthcare system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers that offer a range of services, including primary care, specialist care, and emergency services. The government also provides free vaccinations and preventive health services. Private healthcare is also available in Macedonia, with a range of private hospitals and clinics offering more specialized services. The quality of healthcare services in Macedonia is generally good, although there are some disparities in access to care between rural and urban areas," said one expat in Macedonia.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

City Center Square in Skopje, Macedonia

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