It is needless to stress the importance of health coverage in a foreign country. Fortunately, Türkiye has a well-developed healthcare system, with state-of-the-art medical facilities and highly qualified personnel, as well as quality health coverage schemes.
Health insurance in Türkiye
Health insurance is a mandatory requirement for expats, especially if you plan to apply for a residence permit in Türkiye.
If your home country's government healthcare scheme is compatible with Turkish legal requirements, you may be able to keep this plan during your stay in Türkiye. Your country's health services should be able to provide you with more detailed information.
Otherwise, if you are employed by a Turkish firm, your company will enroll you in the national social security system (Sosyal Guvenlik Kurumu, SGK), a contribution-based scheme available to all residents.
The SGK entitles you to free inpatient and outpatient care in all public hospitals and clinics. It covers most health problems, including disease, pregnancy and occupational injuries, and includes allowances to compensate you for temporary work incapacity. In addition, you can get most of your medication at a discount from local pharmacies as long as they are prescribed by a public hospital physician.
The SGK will also grant you a discount at most private hospitals and clinics, although you will still face out-of-pocket expenses.
Even without a work contract, you can opt into the SGK for a monthly fee, provided you already hold a valid Turkish residence permit.
Alternatively, you can subscribe to a private health insurance scheme, local or international. This is a preferred option for many expats, as private health facilities tend to have more English-speaking doctors than public ones. Premiums may vary according to your age, nationality, health record, and the extensiveness of the plan's coverage.
There are many insurance companies to choose from. Some of the leading international health insurance providers are:
Consider having a look at their offers according to your needs and get a free quote.
Good to know:
Plastic surgery is not covered under the SGK. In addition, dental care services are very limited in the public system (almost none), and you will more often than not have to turn to a private practitioner.
Most private insurance packages will offer basic coverage, including accidents and health check-ups. However, for more extensive healthcare services (such as treatment of serious or chronic illnesses), it may be best to opt for international health insurance.
The Turkish healthcare system
Türkiye's healthcare system is a dynamic blend of the public and private sectors designed to provide comprehensive medical services. In recent years, the system has undergone significant reforms, leading to improved healthcare standards and greater accessibility.
Public healthcare services
The public healthcare system in Türkiye is primarily state-funded and offers a wide range of services. Public hospitals and clinics are available across the country, providing medical treatment to Turkish citizens and residents, including expatriates. These facilities are generally well-equipped and staffed with qualified healthcare professionals.
The downsides of public hospitals in Türkiye are similar to those in other countries. You will most likely have to deal with longer waiting times, occasionally crowded facilities, and a less personal approach. For expats, access to English-speaking doctors in public hospitals may also be limited.
The Ministry of Health oversees the public healthcare system. Basic healthcare services are provided at little to no cost to those covered under the Social Security Institution (SGK). This includes consultations, treatments, surgeries, and even some medications.
Expatriates who are legal residents and employed in Türkiye are eligible to be covered under the SGK scheme. This requires registration with the SGK, which can typically be facilitated by the employer. Once registered, expatriates and their dependents have access to public healthcare services similar to those of Turkish nationals.
The price of the initial consultation in a public hospital in Türkiye generally ranges from 200 to 500 Turkish Lira (depending on the city you are in, location, the nature of the consultation, etc.).
To register for SGK, you will need to provide documentation such as a residency permit, work permit, and identification details. Employers usually assist in this process, but if you are self-employed, you can directly approach the local SGK office to complete your registration.
Private healthcare services
In addition to the public sector, Türkiye has a robust private healthcare system, consisting of numerous private hospitals and clinics. These facilities are known for their high-quality services, advanced technology, and modern infrastructure.
Private healthcare providers in Türkiye offer a range of medical services, often encompassing specialized treatments and elective procedures not typically available in public hospitals. They are particularly popular among expatriates and tourists for their high standards of care.
One of the key advantages of private healthcare in Türkiye is the reduced waiting times compared to public hospitals. Moreover, many private healthcare facilities in major cities and tourist areas have English-speaking staff and doctors, making communication easier and eliminating the need for translator assistance. The level of comfort and patient care in private hospitals is generally higher, with more personalized attention.
While private healthcare provides several benefits, it's important to keep in mind that it is substantially more expensive than public healthcare. Expatriates opting for private healthcare should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage to manage these costs. Many private hospitals in Türkiye accept a range of international health insurance plans, but it's always wise to confirm this beforehand.
In a private hospital, the first visit will typically cost you around USD 40 to USD 50. Note that prices at large international hospitals, such as the American Hospital in Istanbul, tend to be even higher. Here, the price of a surgical procedure - for instance, treatment of a broken leg—will cost you upwards of USD 5,000.
Good to know:
Cosmetic surgery procedures, including dentistry, hair transplants, and plastic surgery have become increasingly popular in Türkiye, especially among foreigners.
The country has gained a reputation for high-quality and affordable cosmetic treatments, attracting a global clientele. Recognizing this demand, many Turkish hospitals and clinics now offer specialized tourist packages tailored for international visitors seeking cosmetic procedures. These packages often include not just the medical procedure but also comprehensive services such as airport transfers, accommodation, translation services, and post-operative care.
Pharmacies and medication in Türkiye
Pharmacies in Türkiye are plentiful and can be found in every neighborhood, including in smaller towns and rural areas. They are usually marked by a red or green cross and the word "Eczane." Turkish pharmacies typically operate during regular business hours, but each district has designated pharmacies open on a rotational basis during nights and weekends for emergencies, known as "nöbetçi eczane." This information is often displayed on the doors of local pharmacies or can be found online.
In Türkiye, prescription medications require a doctor's prescription, which can be obtained after a consultation. The prescription policies are relatively strict to ensure the proper use of medications. Prescriptions are usually written in Turkish, and it is essential for expatriates to have them translated if they are seeking a specific medication. Over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers, cold and flu remedies, and some basic first-aid items, can be purchased without a prescription. It's important to note that some medications that may be available over-the-counter in other countries could require a prescription in Türkiye, and vice versa.
Good to know:
Pharmacists in Türkiye are well-trained and can often provide advice on medication usage, side effects, and interactions. Plus, in larger cities and tourist towns, you will find pharmacies that cater specifically to foreigners. Here, you will not only find English-speaking pharmacists but also
Specialist and dental medical services in Türkiye
Türkiye is known for its high standard of dental care and specialized medical services. The country has become a popular destination for medical tourism, including dental treatments, due to its quality services at competitive prices. In general, the prices for popular dental procedures in Türkiye are 50% to 70% cheaper than the prices for the same services in the US and UK. For instance, the average price for teeth whitening in the United States starts at USD 500, while in Türkiye, you can get the same treatment for around USD 200. One of the most popular dental procedures in Türkiye are dental implants, crowns and veneers. In the United States, the cost per veneer ranges from USD 800 to USD 2000, while in Türkiye, the prices start at USD 100 to USD 200 per tooth.
Dental clinics in Türkiye offer a wide range of services, from routine check-ups and cleanings to more complex procedures like implants and cosmetic dentistry. These services are generally more affordable than in many Western countries, making them an attractive option for expatriates.
Reputable dentists can be found in almost all major cities. Moreover, many Turkish dentists have qualifications from or experience with European or North American dental institutions.
Finding medical specialists in most fields in Türkiye shouldn't be a problem — especially in big cities. A lot of specialist doctors practice in private hospitals, where you can expect state-of-the-art facilities and English-speaking staff.
Appointments with specialists can usually be made directly or through a hospital's appointment system. In some cases, a referral from a general practitioner might be required.
To find the right specialist, it's a good idea to look for reviews, qualifications, and any affiliations with reputable medical organizations. Expatriate communities, online forums, and local contacts can be valuable sources for recommendations.
It's also a good idea to check if the healthcare provider you are considering is comfortable communicating in English (or your preferred language) to avoid any miscommunication during treatment.
Emergency services in Türkiye
Access to emergency services is a critical aspect of healthcare that expatriates in Türkiye should be familiar with. Understanding how to access these services and what to expect in emergency situations is essential for timely and effective medical care.
The universal emergency number in Türkiye is 112. This number can be dialed for any emergency, including medical emergencies, and it connects the caller to an operator who will dispatch the appropriate services.
Medical emergencies
By calling 112, you can request an ambulance. Ambulance services in Türkiye are generally reliable and efficient. In urban areas, the response time is usually quick, while it may be longer in rural areas.
Good to know:
Türkiye has both public and private ambulances. Dialing 112 will direct you to a public ambulance, which will take you to the nearest hospital or the one where you have health insurance if you have the information with you. If you are a resident of the country, emergency services are generally free. Alternatively, you can also call a private ambulance – you will need to check with your insurance provider to see if this is covered in your package.
While emergency operators are trained professionals, there might be a language barrier as English is not always fluently spoken. It's best to have some basic Turkish phrases ready to help you explain the emergency and identify your location.
In case of a medical emergency, the patient will usually be transported to the nearest public hospital. If you have a preference for a particular hospital or a private hospital, it's important to state this clearly.
Extra tip: It may be a good idea to have a paper in Turkish with your insurance details as well as your preferred hospital on you at all times so that you can show it to medical professionals in case of an emergency.
Emergency treatment in public hospitals is typically provided free of charge, regardless of whether the patient has health insurance. However, subsequent treatments or hospitalization might incur charges. Always have your health insurance details handy, as this will be required for further treatment, especially in private hospitals.
Dealing with accidents
Whether you are a visitor or a resident of Türkiye, handling accidents calls for a fundamental awareness of the legal and emergency response systems. Although Türkiye has improved its healthcare system and road safety measures over the years, accidents still happen, ranging in severity from small mishaps to more serious occurrences.
Despite significant efforts to increase road safety, traffic accidents continue to be among the most frequent kinds of incidents in Türkiye. High-speed driving, disobedience to traffic laws, and occasionally difficult road conditions—particularly in rural areas—are all factors in traffic accidents. Türkiye's healthcare system is prepared to act quickly in the event of a traffic accident, and emergency services can be reached by calling the 112 emergency number. It is recommended that foreign nationals familiarize themselves with local traffic regulations and obtain comprehensive health insurance that covers medical care in the event of a traffic accident.
Natural disasters
Türkiye is vulnerable to several natural calamities, such as earthquakes, floods, and wildfires, due to its geographical location. Because of the nation's location on major fault lines, earthquakes are a particular worry. When a natural disaster strikes, Türkiye's emergency services are well-coordinated, offering impacted citizens medical attention and rescue. Living in areas where natural disaster risk is high, expatriates should be prepared by getting earthquake insurance and becoming familiar with emergency evacuation protocols.
Occupational accidents
While Türkiye has regulations to ensure workplace safety, accidents can occur, particularly in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and agriculture. Expats working in Türkiye are covered by social security for workplace injuries, granting them access to medical care and compensation.
Pregnancy and maternity care in Türkiye
Pregnant women in Türkiye can access a wide range of healthcare services from the Turkish healthcare system, which guarantees that they will receive the help and direction they need from doctors during and after their pregnancy.
Maternity care in Turkey is provided by public and private healthcare facilities and is regulated by the Ministry of Health. Prenatal care, including routine checkups, blood tests, and ultrasound scans, is available in public hospitals and maternity clinics all throughout the nation. Residents who are insured by the Turkish social security system frequently receive these services for free or at a very low cost.
In recent years, Türkiye has witnessed an increase in the availability of alternative birthing options, including water births and home births, catering to the diverse preferences of expectant mothers. This shift reflects a broader trend towards personalized maternity care, with an emphasis on respecting women's choices and promoting a positive birthing experience.
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