Health Insurance in Romania, Europe

Information expatriation

Capital City: Bucharest
Total area: 238,391 km2
Population: 21,438,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +40 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikipedia Romania

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:

·      Romania has a universal healthcare system that is funded through general taxation, mandatory health insurance contributions and out-of-pocket payments.

·      It provides public coverage for primary care, outpatient specialist visits, hospitalization, emergency care and essential medication.

·      The system is decentralized, with each of the 41 counties administering their own hospitals, clinics and services.

·      Healthcare is delivered through public facilities run by the Ministry of Health as well as private healthcare providers.

·      Family physicians act as gatekeepers for access to specialized care and hospitals.

·      Coverage is comprehensive but infrastructure, staffing and funding remain challenges, especially in rural areas.

·      Major reforms since 2007 have aimed to modernize facilities, digitize records and improve access across the country.

·      However, challenges persist in terms of staff shortages, long wait times and out-of-pocket costs for services.

·      Life expectancy and health outcomes have improved but lag Western European averages.

·      Medical tourism from abroad helps supplement the domestic system.

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

·      Obtain a Fiscal Code Number (Cod Numeric Personal) to access public insurance coverage.

·      Consider supplementary private health insurance for faster specialist access.

·      Have documents proving income/employment to apply for coverage.

·      Choose a public medical center/family doctor as your primary care provider.

·      Services are generally good in major cities but limited in rural areas.

·      Bring adequate supply of any prescription medications needed.

·      Learn some basic Romanian medical terminology for communicating needs.

·      Vaccinations should be up to date, especially for hepatitis A and tick-borne diseases.

·      Only drink bottled or boiled water and thoroughly cook foods to avoid illness.

·      Air pollution in cities increases risks like respiratory and cardiovascular issues.

·      Natural disasters seldom occur but have an emergency healthcare plan.

·      Register with your embassy for emergency assistance if required abroad.