Health Insurance in Croatia, Europe
Information expatriation
Capital City: Zagreb
Total area: 56,538 km2
Population: 4,555,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +385 XXX
Practical Information:
Health Product: Travel Insurance and Health insurance
Health Insurance information and Sanitary Risk: World Health Map
BLOG : Expat Health insurance Information
Here is a brief description of the healthcare system in the country:
· Croatia has a universal healthcare system that is mainly public, with some private options. It is funded by compulsory health insurance.
· Healthcare is delivered through primary care providers, county hospitals, clinical hospitals, and specialized medical institutions.
· Primary care is the first point of contact and includes GPs, pediatricians and gynecologists. These are located throughout the country.
· County hospitals provide specialist outpatient care and medium complexity surgery and procedures.
· Clinical hospitals are large regional centers that offer specialized diagnosis, treatment and medical education.
· Specialized hospitals focus on areas like infectious diseases, cancer, cardiovascular conditions.
· There are also private primary care practices, clinics and hospitals available.
· The system is generally of high quality but faces challenges of an aging population and physician shortages.
· Health insurance is mandatory for all citizens and residents through employment or self-payment.
Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:
· Health Insurance - As an EU member, Croatian residents can access the public system. Visitors need travel insurance.
· Language - While English is increasingly understood, learning some medical Croatian/Slavic terms helps communication.
· Facilities - Top hospitals are in major cities like Zagreb, Split and Rijeka. Rural options may be more limited.
· Specialists - May have long wait times. Consider traveling abroad or private pay for faster specialist access.
· Prescriptions - Drugs names/doses vary from other countries. Bring adequate supply or budget extra costs.
· Traditional Medicine - Natural remedies remain popular as a complement to Western practices.
· Vaccinations - Ensure routine immunizations are up to date. Consider others like hepatitis A depending on travel plans.
· Sea Safety - Medical evacuation from islands may require boats if flights are unavailable.
· Insurance - Visitors must purchase travel/health insurance that covers potential evacuation needs.