15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Slovakia
Last updated on Apr 11, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Slovakia is generally considered to be good, although it may not be as advanced as in the United States. Emergency services are generally reliable and ambulances can be called by dialing 112. The response time for ambulances is usually quite fast, and medical personnel are well-trained and experienced.
How are healthcare services Slovakia?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Slovakia, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Slovakia 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 is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive care. Expats in Slovakia can use the public healthcare system, but they must first register with the local health insurance provider. Once registered, they can access the same services as Slovak citizens, including preventive care, specialist care, and hospital care. Expats may also be able to access private healthcare services, depending on their insurance coverage," mentioned one expat in Slovakia.
What are medical services in Slovakia like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Slovakia, they replied:
"In Slovakia, medical services are generally of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. Patients can access a variety of treatments, including general medical care, specialist care, and emergency services. The country also has a number of private clinics and hospitals, offering a range of services. In addition, Slovakia has a number of health insurance schemes, allowing citizens to access medical services at a reduced cost," mentioned one expat in Slovakia.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Slovakia?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Slovakia can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, public healthcare is free for Slovak citizens, but private healthcare can be costly. Health insurance is also available, but premiums can be expensive, and coverage may not be comprehensive. Additionally, some services may not be covered by insurance, and patients may be required to pay out of pocket for those services," mentioned one expat in Slovakia.
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What are emergency services like in Slovakia?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Slovakia wrote:
"Emergency services in Slovakia are provided by the Emergency Medical Service (EMS). EMS is a public service that provides medical assistance to people in need of urgent medical care. To call for an ambulance, you can dial the emergency number 112. The EMS will then dispatch an ambulance to the location of the caller. The ambulance will be staffed with a medical team that is trained to provide medical assistance and transport the patient to the nearest hospital," wrote an expat living in Slovakia.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is home to some of the best medical specialists in the country. The city is home to a number of highly-regarded hospitals and clinics, including the University Hospital Bratislava, which is one of the largest and most advanced medical facilities in the country. Other cities in Slovakia with a good selection of medical specialists include Kosice, Nitra, and Presov. In addition, the towns of Banska Bystrica and Zilina are also known for their excellent medical care," commented one expat who moved to Slovakia.
Are common prescription medications available in Slovakia?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Slovakia. Most medications can be obtained from pharmacies, with a valid prescription from a doctor. Some medications may require special authorization from the Ministry of Health. In addition, some medications may be available over the counter without a prescription," wrote an expat living in Slovakia.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Slovakia?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Slovakia are generally of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. Slovakia has a number of modern hospitals and clinics, staffed by highly trained and experienced medical professionals. The country also has a comprehensive network of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications. In addition, Slovakia has a number of specialized medical centers, offering specialized treatments and services. Overall, the quality of medical care in Slovakia is excellent, and the country is well-equipped to provide quality healthcare to its citizens," said an expat in Slovakia.
As a foreigner living in Slovakia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Slovakia, you will have access to public healthcare. The healthcare system in Slovakia is generally considered to be 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 system is divided into primary care, specialist care, and hospital care, and is provided by both public and private providers. The quality of care is generally good, and the cost of services is generally lower than in other European countries," said one expat living in Slovakia.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Slovakia if they have access to public healthcare in Slovakia. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Slovakia. The government has implemented a number of measures to protect the public, including the introduction of a nationwide lockdown, the closure of schools and non-essential businesses, and the introduction of a contact tracing system. The healthcare system has also been stretched to its limits, with hospitals and medical staff facing a huge influx of patients and a shortage of medical supplies. Despite these challenges, the healthcare system has managed to cope with the pandemic, providing quality care to those in need," said one expat.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Slovakia?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Slovakia about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"1. Make sure to research the healthcare system in Slovakia and find a doctor or midwife that you trust and feel comfortable with. 2. Consider taking a childbirth preparation class to help you prepare for the birth. 3. Familiarize yourself with the maternity leave policies in Slovakia and plan ahead for any financial or logistical needs you may have during your leave. 4. Connect with other expat parents in Slovakia to get advice and support. 5. Take advantage of the many cultural activities and attractions in Slovakia to help you and your family adjust to life in the country," explained one expat.
Are healthcare services good in Slovakia?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Slovakia. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Slovakia are provided by both public and private providers. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens. Private healthcare services are also available, but they are more expensive and may require additional insurance coverage. In Slovakia, healthcare services are generally of a high quality, with a wide range of medical specialists and modern medical equipment. The country also has a well-developed network of hospitals and clinics, providing a range of services from primary care to specialized treatments," said one expat in Slovakia.
About the Author
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.
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