Health Insurance in Turkey

In Turkey, having medical insurance coverage is a mandatory requirement for residents, employees, and students. The cost of health insurance in Turkey varies based on factors such as age, duration of coverage, the insurance provider, and the extent of hospital network coverage.

Foreign residents in Turkey who are under 18 or over 65 are exempt from paying for new health insurance when issuing or renewing a residence permit.

To obtain health insurance in Turkey as a foreigner, you need:

1.    A valid passport copy.

2.    A copy of the residence permit (preferably two-sided, if available).

3.    Detailed residential address.

4.    Information specifying the health insurance start date and duration.

Turkey has two types of insurance, general health insurance and private health insurance.

General Health Insurance

The General Health Insurance Scheme (GSS), overseen by the Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Services and the Ministry of Health, offers comprehensive coverage to Turkish citizens and foreign workers with permits. GSS provides access to free healthcare, treatments, and discounted medicines. The coverage extends not only to the insured member but also to their parents, children, and spouse, ensuring the well-being of the entire family.

Private Health Care Insurance in Turkey

Private health care insurance in Turkey is designed to cover the duration of one's stay and is a prerequisite for residency applications or renewals. While this insurance does not offer substantial treatment discounts in private or government hospitals and does not cover medication costs, it is affordable and easily accessible.

On the other hand, comprehensive insurance provides extensive coverage, including treatments, surgeries, and accidents. However, it is also one of the most expensive insurance options available.

Does Turkish Private Health Insurance Cover Dental

Certainly, private insurance in Turkey typically covers a range of dental services, including dental examinations, panoramic X-rays, tooth cleaning, extractions, and teeth whitening. It's essential to verify the specific coverage details with the dental clinic of your choice before scheduling an appointment.

Health Insurance for Students in Turkey

International students studying in Turkey are obligated to have health insurance, a mandatory prerequisite for obtaining a student residence permit. The insurance policy must be valid for a minimum of one year to secure a short-term residence permit in the country. Additionally, all universities in Turkey provide access to health centers where students can undergo health checks and medical examinations as needed.

Health insurance holds vital significance for both Turkish citizens and foreign residents in Turkey, playing a pivotal role in safeguarding the rights and compensation of workers within the country's labor market.

Additionally, when traveling, it is advisable to complement your health coverage with travel insurance tailored to your specific health needs and preferences

Family Health Care Center in Turkey

In every neighborhood, there are family health care centers where residents can access free consultations by showing their residency permit or passport. The doctors at these clinics operate independently, setting their own fees and are not affiliated with insurance companies.

Alternatively, private clinics offer professional treatments, although insurance coverage is not applicable. These clinics provide services that can be accessed through their online platforms or by visiting them in person. You can obtain more information and schedule appointments directly with these private facilities.

Advantages of Health Insurance Policy

Safeguard your loved ones

Illness can strike unexpectedly, often catching us off guard without savings. Health insurance, funded through pooled contributions, ensures treatment even for costly conditions. It covers illnesses incurred after the insurance starts, providing confidence and peace of mind when unexpected health issues arise.

Deal with Medical Inflation

Global inflation has impacted the medical sector, raising expenses for doctor consultations, medications, admissions, diagnostic tests, and ambulances. Protect yourself from this financial strain by investing in an insurance policy. During the Covid-19 pandemic, many lives were lost due to exorbitant admission costs and medication expenses, as some hospitals exploited the situation by hiking their prices.

Lifestyle Disease

Chronic conditions like diabetes, obesity, stroke, heart disease, and obstructive pulmonary disease often require lifelong medication and regular checkups. Having medical coverage significantly reduces the financial strain on patients and their families in managing these ongoing healthcare needs.

Private Hospitals in Turkey 

Turkey's private hospitals deliver world-class services, ranking among the best globally. The country's medical tourism sector boasts numerous specialized hospitals, fostering intense competition and driving down procedure costs significantly in comparison to the US and other European nations.

Istanbul stands as the epicenter of luxury healthcare in Turkey, featuring opulent hospitals equipped with cutting-edge technology from renowned international brands. These facilities not only prioritize top-notch medical care but also offer amenities such as spas and upscale canteens, ensuring patients experience the utmost comfort during their stay.

Private hospitals in Turkey offer significant advantages, including English-speaking medical staff, and in some cases, professionals fluent in Russian, German, and French. One notable perk is the ability to receive treatment on the same day as your appointment, a contrast to government hospitals where appointments can take up to three days.

The expertise of doctors, coupled with their efficiency in managing high patient volumes, has earned both Turkish public and private hospitals commendable recognition for their services.

Doctors in Turkey

There are many websites on which you can find the best doctors considering what procedure you want to be done on you. Some are recommended and rated by previous patients, while others are on online medical services websites comparing international hospitals and clinics.    

Medical Emergency Numbers in Turkey

It's essential to keep your family doctor's number accessible for all family members. In Turkey, emergency numbers with three digits are toll-free and operational 24/7. For free health consultations, dial 184, describe the emergency, and provide your address. For immediate first aid assistance, call the toll-free number 122 and request the necessary information.

Read our health care services for foreigners blog for more information on health services and facilities in Turkey