Expat Health Insurance in Turkey: Everything You Need to Know
If you are a foreigner planning to live or travel to Turkey, being familiar with the healthcare system is important. Read here to know more!
Turkey is a popular destination for many foreigners looking to travel, work, or retire. It is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality. With Turkey's booming healthcare industry, it has also become a popular destination for medical tourism. If you are a foreigner planning to live or travel to Turkey, being familiar with the healthcare system is important.
Overview of the Healthcare System in Turkey
Turkey's universal healthcare system provides free or low-cost healthcare services to all citizens and legal residents. The Ministry of Health oversees the healthcare system and is divided into two main sectors: public and private. The government funds the public sector, while private insurance companies and individuals fund the private sector.
Healthcare Services in Turkey
The healthcare services in Turkey are of high quality and accessible to all. The healthcare system provides many services, including primary, hospital, emergency, and speciality care. Family physicians offer primary care services and are available in all parts of the country. Hospital care is available in public and private hospitals, and both public and private hospitals provide emergency care.
Speciality care services are also available in Turkey, including dental, eye, and mental health care. Turkey is known for its high-quality dental care services and is a popular destination for dental tourism. Eye care services are also high-quality, and Turkey is a popular destination for eye surgeries such as LASIK and cataract surgery.
Health Insurance in Turkey
All citizens and legal residents of Turkey are required to have health insurance. The government provides free healthcare services to those who cannot afford health insurance. Those who can afford health insurance can choose between public or private insurance. The government offers public insurance, which is mandatory for all employees. Private insurance is optional and is provided by private insurance companies.
Foreigners living or travelling to Turkey are required to have health insurance. If you are a foreigner living in Turkey, you can apply for public insurance through the Social Security Institution (SGK). Private insurance is also available for foreigners, and many international insurance companies offer health insurance plans for expats.
Costs of Healthcare Services in Turkey
Turkey's healthcare services cost significantly lower than in many other countries. The cost of healthcare services in Turkey is lower due to the lower cost of living and the government's efforts to provide affordable healthcare services. The cost of healthcare services in private hospitals is higher than in public hospitals, but it is still significantly lower than in many other countries.
The cost of health insurance in Turkey varies depending on the type of insurance and the individual's age and health status. The government funds public insurance, free for those who cannot afford it. Private insurance is optional and can cost anywhere from $50 to $300 per month, depending on the level of coverage.
Conclusion
Turkey's healthcare services cost significantly lower than in many other countries, making it a popular destination for medical tourism. As a foreigner living or travelling to Turkey, it is important to be familiar with the healthcare system and to have health insurance to ensure access to quality healthcare services.
If you're an ex-pat planning to live in Turkey and obtain a residence permit, it's crucial to secure an ex-pat health insurance policy issued by Ikamet Sigorta. Contact us today!