Health Insurance in Russia, Europe

Information expatriation

Capital City: Moscow
Total area: 17,098,200 km2
Population: 141,927,900 (2008)
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +7 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikipedia Russia

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:

·      Russia has a universal healthcare system that aims to provide government-funded medical care for all citizens.

·      It is divided into federal and regional components and financed through general taxation, social insurance and private payments.

·      Most services are provided through government-run clinics and hospitals managed by regional authorities.

·      Primary care centers are the first point of contact and act as gateways to specialized and hospital care.

·      Coverage includes inpatient/outpatient services, prescription drugs, emergency care and maternal/child health.

·      However, infrastructure and funding remains uneven between urban and rural settings.

·      Out-of-pocket costs are significant and informal under-the-table payments are widespread.

·      Major reforms have improved facilities but shortages of medical equipment, medicines and doctors persist.

·      Life expectancy and health outcomes improved significantly since the Soviet-era but still lag Western averages.

·      Private medical insurance and paid health services supplement the government-run system.

Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:

·      Purchase compulsory health insurance within 1 month of arrival to access public healthcare services.

·      Supplemental private insurance can provide faster specialized care access in private facilities.

·      Bring a stock of necessary prescription medications, as some may not be available locally.

·      Choose reliable health insurance recognizing high costs of hospital/specialist care.

·      Register with a local polyclinic/general practitioner for primary care needs.

·      Quality varies between large cities and rural areas - higher standards in major urban centers.

·      Vaccinations against endemic infections like measles are important especially for children.

·      Learn basic Russian medical terms to better communicate healthcare needs and symptoms.

·      Severe weather presents health risks - monitor impact of cold conditions on yourself.

·      Register home address with your embassy in case emergency assistance is required abroad.

·      Develop evacuation plan with insurance in event medical evacuation becomes necessary.