Health Insurance in Slovakia, Europe

Information expatriation

Capital City: Bratislava
Total area: 49,033 km2
Population: 5,402,273 (2008)
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +421 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikipedia Slovakia

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:

·      Slovakia has a universal healthcare system that provides coverage to all permanent residents. It is largely funded through taxes and health insurance contributions.

·      Healthcare services are delivered through both public and private facilities including primary care centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals and specialized institutions.

·      Primary care services like checkups, basic treatments, screenings are readily available at nominal cost via general practitioners.

·      Public hospitals provide the bulk of inpatient and specialty care with patients contributing small copays. Wait times can vary.

·      Private practices and hospitals offer an alternative and quality is generally equivalent between public and private sectors.

·      Healthcare spending accounts for around 7% of GDP. The system focuses on Universal coverage across both primary and hospital care.

·      Slovakia has a developed network of facilities and medical professionals with health outcomes on par with Western European averages.

·      Overall, it is a mixed public-private healthcare model that aims to provide universal access to quality and affordable care through both sector options.

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

·      Register for compulsory public health insurance as a resident to access the system through co-payments.

·      Consider supplemental private health insurance for flexibility of providers and coverage of copays.

·      Language barriers may exist - look into translation services or clinics catering to foreigners.

·      Bring sufficient prescription supplies as availability may vary, especially of specialized medications.

·      Wait times can be long at hospitals compared to some Western systems - plan accordingly.

·      Infrastructure outside major cities can be more outdated - have contingencies for rural areas.

·      Winter weather and air pollution in some regions may impact those with respiratory conditions.

·      Develop personal support systems as mental healthcare options have limited availability.

·      Thoroughly understand policies regarding coverage, claim submissions, eligibility periods.

·      Road and pedestrian safety risks exist due to winter conditions - be prudent.

·      Healthcare fraud is not unknown - keep documentation of all medical services, costs and providers.

·      With public insurance registration and knowledge of the system, expats can access high quality care across Slovakia.