15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Cyprus
Last updated on Mar 05, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in Cyprus is generally considered to be good, with many medical professionals trained in the United States and Europe. Emergency services are generally reliable and well-equipped, with ambulances available 24 hours a day. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 112, the emergency number in Cyprus.
How are healthcare services Cyprus?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cyprus, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Cyprus are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and legal residents of Cyprus. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and mental health services. Foreign residents are also able to access the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats in Cyprus can use the public healthcare system by registering with the local health centre and obtaining a health card. This card allows them to access the same services as citizens, although they may need to pay a fee for some services," mentioned one expat in Cyprus.
What are medical services in Cyprus like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cyprus, they replied:
"Cyprus has a well-developed healthcare system, providing a wide range of medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a variety of medical services, including general and specialized medical care, preventive health care, and emergency services. The country also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care in areas such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology. In addition, Cyprus has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription and over-the-counter medications," mentioned one expat in Cyprus.
Avertiss is a professional brokerage firm that offers services in real estate and its related fields. We represent buyers and sellers in both the northern and southern parts of the island of Cyprus. Our brokerage consists of highly experienced professionals specializing in real estate investment, lifestyle, legal services, and valuation advisory.
Avertiss is a professional brokerage firm that offers services in real estate and its related fields. We represent buyers and sellers in both the northern and southern parts of the island of Cyprus. Our brokerage consists of highly experienced professionals specializing in real estate investment, lifestyle, legal services, and valuation advisory.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Cyprus?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Cyprus can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services required. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Public healthcare is also available, but it is limited and may not cover all medical needs. In general, healthcare and health insurance in Cyprus can be expensive, but there are options available to help cover the costs," remarked one expat in Cyprus.
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Avertiss is a professional brokerage firm that offers services in real estate and its related fields. We represent buyers and sellers in both the northern and southern parts of the island of Cyprus. Our brokerage consists of highly experienced professionals specializing in real estate investment, lifestyle, legal services, and valuation advisory.
Avertiss is a professional brokerage firm that offers services in real estate and its related fields. We represent buyers and sellers in both the northern and southern parts of the island of Cyprus. Our brokerage consists of highly experienced professionals specializing in real estate investment, lifestyle, legal services, and valuation advisory.
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What are emergency services like in Cyprus?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Cyprus wrote:
"I live within 5 miles of a public hospital and several private clinics. Emergency services are available at both public and private hospitals. However, some specialized treatment may require travel to hospitals much further away," mentioned one expat in Paralimni.
"Emergency services in Cyprus are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the public can call 112 for an ambulance. The call center is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is able to dispatch an ambulance to the scene of the emergency. The ambulance service is free of charge and is staffed by trained medical personnel. In addition to the ambulance service, the 112 call center can also dispatch the fire department, police, and other emergency services," commented one expat who moved to Cyprus.
Avertiss is a professional brokerage firm that offers services in real estate and its related fields. We represent buyers and sellers in both the northern and southern parts of the island of Cyprus. Our brokerage consists of highly experienced professionals specializing in real estate investment, lifestyle, legal services, and valuation advisory.
Avertiss is a professional brokerage firm that offers services in real estate and its related fields. We represent buyers and sellers in both the northern and southern parts of the island of Cyprus. Our brokerage consists of highly experienced professionals specializing in real estate investment, lifestyle, legal services, and valuation advisory.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"The cities of Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca are known for having a wide selection of medical specialists. Additionally, the coastal towns of Paphos and Ayia Napa are also known for having a variety of medical specialists. In general, the larger cities in Cyprus tend to have the best selection of medical specialists," remarked one expat in Cyprus.
Are common prescription medications available in Cyprus?
"Prescriptions are available locally. There are many pharmacies available in my area or they can be obtained at the hospital. As an expat from the US I find the cost of prescriptions in Cyprus very reasonable. Many prescriptions, such as antibiotics and allergy medicines can be purchased without a prescription," wrote an expat living in Paralimni.
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Cyprus. Most pharmacies in Cyprus carry a wide range of medications, including those prescribed by doctors. Many of these medications are imported from other countries, such as the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States. In addition, some pharmacies also offer generic versions of certain medications, which are often cheaper than the brand-name versions. It is important to note that some medications may require a prescription from a doctor in order to be purchased in Cyprus," said an expat in Cyprus.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Cyprus?
"Cyprus has a high standard of medical care and facilities, with a wide range of modern medical services available. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals and clinics offering a range of treatments and services. The quality of medical care is generally good, with highly trained medical professionals and access to the latest medical technology. In addition, the cost of medical care in Cyprus is generally lower than in other European countries," said one expat living in Cyprus.
As a foreigner living in Cyprus, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Cyprus, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Cyprus is generally of a high quality, with a wide range of services available. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and legal residents. The public healthcare system is divided into two parts: primary care and secondary care. Primary care is provided by general practitioners, while secondary care is provided by specialists. The public healthcare system also includes a network of hospitals and clinics, as well as a range of other services such as mental health services, home care, and preventive care," mentioned one expat in Cyprus.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Cyprus if they have access to public healthcare in Cyprus. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Cyprus. The government has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety of both healthcare workers and patients, including the introduction of telemedicine services, the implementation of strict safety protocols in hospitals, and the provision of additional resources to healthcare workers. In addition, the government has also provided financial support to those affected by the pandemic, such as those who have lost their jobs or are unable to work due to the pandemic. Overall, the healthcare system in Cyprus has responded well to the pandemic, and the government has taken steps to ensure that the healthcare system is able to cope with the increased demand for services," said one expat living in Cyprus.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Cyprus?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Cyprus about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the healthcare system in Cyprus before having a baby. Make sure to find a doctor or midwife that you trust and feel comfortable with. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the maternity leave policies in Cyprus and to plan ahead for any financial needs that may arise. Additionally, it is important to build a support network of family and friends who can help you during the pregnancy and after the baby is born. Finally, make sure to take time to relax and enjoy the experience of having a baby in Cyprus," said one person in Cyprus.
"I would assist any woman here to have the birth and anteanatal she prefers.. Pafos needs a birthing centre, run by midwives and overseen by a consultant," remarked one expat in Paphos.
Are healthcare services good in Cyprus?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Cyprus. They wrote:
"Our Medical Care is basicly FREE. The Cypriot Govt introduced as NHS type of cover for all residents who are retired over 60 years of age. I have had two total hips replace and it cost me €16.00 in total. If not over 60 years then a good medical cover will be required to cover the costs. Dr's visit approx €25-35 Consultant visit can be over €100.00++," said one expat in Poli Chrystopiou.
"Healthcare services in Cyprus are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and provides free or low-cost healthcare to all citizens. Private healthcare is also available and is generally of a higher quality than public healthcare. The country has a wide range of medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. In addition, there are a number of specialized medical centers offering specialized treatments and services. Cyprus also has a number of health insurance companies that provide coverage for medical expenses," wrote a person living in Cyprus.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- How do I meet people in Cyprus?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Cyprus?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Cyprus?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Cyprus accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Cyprus like?
- Is the cost of living in Cyprus high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Cyprus?
- What are healthcare services like in Cyprus?
- Is the cost of living in Cyprus high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Cyprus?
- What is the weather like in Cyprus?
- Are there good restaurants in Cyprus?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Cyprus?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Cyprus?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Cyprus?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Cyprus?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Cyprus?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?