Expat Health Insurance in Georgia, Asia

Useful information for expatriates in Georgia

Capital City: Tbilisi
Total area: 69,700 km2
Population: 4,395,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time Zones by Country
Calling Code: +995 xxx

Practical Information: 

Wikipedia Georgia

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:

·      Georgia has a universal healthcare system that provides coverage to all citizens and legal residents. It is funded through general taxation rather than private health insurance.

·      The healthcare system is administered at the national level by the Ministry of Labour, Health and Social Affairs. This ministry oversees state healthcare facilities and sets nationwide policies.

·      Primary care in Georgia is delivered through outpatient clinics and polyclinics. Citizens are required to register with a primary care physician near their place of residence. Primary care is provided free of charge.

·      Specialized outpatient care, diagnostics, surgery and hospitalization are provided by hospitals, clinics and private practices. Citizens pay a nominal fee for specialized services.

·      The government contributes funding to cover healthcare infrastructure, salaries for medical professionals working in state facilities, and prescription drugs.

·      Private health insurance plays a small role. It is used primarily to access private facilities and amenities not covered by the state system.

·      Healthcare quality and access to services has improved significantly in recent decades but challenges remain around staffing, infrastructure and funding in rural areas.

·      Life expectancy in Georgia is around 74 years and health outcomes are similar to other Eastern European countries. Infant and maternal mortality rates have declined substantially.

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

·      Expats are required to have health insurance while residing in Georgia on a temporary or permanent basis. It's recommended to purchase international medical insurance before arriving.

·      The public healthcare system provides emergency care to all people in Georgia regardless of insurance or citizenship status. However, expats would be responsible for any costs not covered by insurance.

·      While the quality of care in major cities is generally good, rural clinics may be more basic. Expats should consider their travel plans and proximity to major hospitals.

·      Language barriers can sometimes be an issue, especially outside Tbilisi. Most doctors speak Russian or English, but it's better to bring someone who can translate if needed.

·      It's advisable to register with a private English-speaking general practitioner in urban areas for primary care needs. They can help coordinate access to specialists.

·      Many expats opt to use private facilities even for non-emergency care due to perceived higher standards and availability of English-language services. But costs are higher.

·      Dental care quality varies - make sure dentists have good training and facilities are hygienic when seeking non-emergency dental work.

·      Take out additional travel insurance for medical evacuation if traveling outside major cities for an extended period.