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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Czech Rep | Expat Exchange
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Prague, Czech Republic

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Czechia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Sep 16, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in the Czech Republic is generally considered to be good, with many doctors and medical professionals having received training in the United States or other Western countries. Emergency services are generally reliable and efficient, with ambulances typically arriving within 15 minutes of being called. To call for an ambulance in the Czech Republic, dial 155.

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How are healthcare services Czechia?

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

"Healthcare services in Czechia are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is generally of high quality. It is available to all citizens and foreign residents, including expats, who are registered with the Czech healthcare system. Expats in Czechia can use the public healthcare system by registering with a local doctor and obtaining a health insurance card. This card allows them to access public healthcare services, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications. Private healthcare services are also available in Czechia, but they are generally more expensive than public services," remarked one expat in Czech Rep.

What are medical services in Czechia like?

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

"Czechia 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 treatments and services, including general and specialized medical care, preventive care, and emergency services. Czechia also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized treatments such as oncology, cardiology, and neurology. In addition, Czechia has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription and over-the-counter medications," said one expat living in Czech Rep.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Czechia?

"Healthcare in Czechia is generally considered to be of a high quality and is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. Health insurance is also relatively affordable, with the government providing a basic level of coverage for all citizens. Private health insurance is also available, but it is not mandatory and is generally more expensive than the public option," commented one expat living in Czech Rep.

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Urban Address Prague is a bespoke boutique one-stop-shop solution for your property needs in Prague and the Czech Republic. We don't just find you the perfect apartment, we build your Prague dream. And what's more - we can arrange everything remotely, stress-free. We are your partner to help you make Prague your new home.
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What are emergency services like in Czechia?

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

"In Czechia, emergency services are provided by the Integrated Rescue System (IRS). The IRS is a network of emergency services, including the fire brigade, police, and medical services. To call for an ambulance, you can 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 your location and the nature of the emergency, and will then dispatch the appropriate emergency service," wrote an expat living in Czech Rep.

Urban Address Prague

Urban Address Prague is a bespoke boutique one-stop-shop solution for your property needs in Prague and the Czech Republic. We don't just find you the perfect apartment, we build your Prague dream. And what's more - we can arrange everything remotely, stress-free. We are your partner to help you make Prague your new home.

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Urban Address Prague

Urban Address Prague is a bespoke boutique one-stop-shop solution for your property needs in Prague and the Czech Republic. We don't just find you the perfect apartment, we build your Prague dream. And what's more - we can arrange everything remotely, stress-free. We are your partner to help you make Prague your new home.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The capital city of Prague is home to some of the best medical specialists in Czechia, with a wide range of specialties available. The city of Brno is also known for its excellent selection of medical specialists, with many highly-trained professionals offering a variety of services. The city of Ostrava is another great option for medical specialists, with a wide range of specialists available in the area. The city of Olomouc is also known for its excellent selection of medical specialists, with many highly-trained professionals offering a variety of services. Finally, the city of Liberec is home to some of the best medical specialists in Czechia, with a wide range of specialties available," wrote an expat living in Czech Rep.

Are common prescription medications available in Czechia?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Czechia. Pharmacies in the country are well-stocked with a wide variety of medications, including both generic and brand-name drugs. Many of the medications available in Czechia are the same as those available in other European countries, although some may be sold under different names. In addition, some medications may be available in Czechia that are not available in other countries," said an expat in Czech Rep.

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

"Medical facilities and medical care in Czechia are of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. Czechia has a high number of qualified medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers. The country also has a number of modern hospitals and clinics, equipped with the latest medical technology. Czechia also has a strong focus on preventive healthcare, with a range of health promotion initiatives in place. Overall, Czechia provides excellent medical care and facilities for its citizens," mentioned one expat in Czech Rep.

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

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Czechia, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Czechia is generally considered to be of a high quality, with a wide range of services available. The system is funded by taxes and is free at the point of use for Czech citizens, although foreigners may be required to pay a fee for some services. The system is also well-equipped with modern medical technology and a wide range of specialists," commented one expat living in Czech Rep.

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

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

"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Czechia during the pandemic have been generally positive. The healthcare system has been well-prepared and well-equipped to handle the influx of patients, and the staff have been professional and helpful. The government has also been proactive in providing support to healthcare workers, such as providing additional funding and resources. Overall, I have been impressed with the way the healthcare system has responded to the pandemic," commented one expat who moved to Czech Rep.

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

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

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Czechia before having a baby. Make sure to find a doctor or midwife who speaks your language and is familiar with the healthcare system in Czechia. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the maternity leave policies in Czechia and to plan ahead for any financial or logistical needs that may arise. Additionally, it is important to build a support network of other expats who have had babies in Czechia, as they can provide valuable advice and support," said one expat in Czech Rep.

Are healthcare services good in Czechia?

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

"Healthcare services in Czechia are generally of a high quality. The country has a universal healthcare system, which is funded by taxes and provides free healthcare to all citizens. The system is managed by the Ministry of Health and is divided into two parts: primary care and specialized care. Primary care is provided by general practitioners, while specialized care is provided by hospitals and other specialized medical facilities. Czechia also has a wide range of private healthcare providers, which offer a variety of services at a cost. In addition, the country has a number of health insurance companies that offer coverage for medical expenses," explained one expat.

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.

Prague, Czech Republic

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