Turkey embraced health care reform back in 2003 placing a greater importance on having both private and public facilities. This reform was intended to improve the quality of service and increase access for the general population. Successfully, this reform led the way to a growth in private facilities, which in effect, created a competitive environment forcing public facilities to improve the quality of care.

Now, Turkey has a complex health system with both governmentally-run and private clinics, doctor’s offices, and hospitals. However, many would agree that care among privately run facilities is superior although more expensive. In fact, many Turkish residents have opted to purchase private insurance in addition to contributing to the state insurance system so that they can receive better quality health services at affordable rates.

Comparative to other developed countries, medical costs in Turkey are less expensive fueling the medical tourism industry. Even though more and more people are traveling to Turkey for care, it is important to look into the facilities as some may not have the resources to treat all serious medical conditions. To underscore this point, the US State Department recommends that pregnant employees leave the country prior to giving birth.

For many expatriates living in Turkey, purchasing a private health insurance policy is highly recommended by both the UK and US consulates. An expatriate health insurance policy in Turkey will allow you to choose a private facility so that you can avoid long lines, overcrowding and the lack of funds that public facilities frequently face. Recently modern facilities and equipment are available in major cities like Ankara, Antalya, and Istanbul, which also include US trained specialist. In other cases, certain treatments are not available and may require medical evacuation to get the medical treatment needed.

According to the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which allows free medical treatment in the European Union countries is not valid in Turkey. Instead, they recommend purchasing a comprehensive expatriate health insurance plan that is valid in Turkey, preferably one that includes medical evacuation/repatriation.

Our Global Medical Health Insurance is a popular option for those expatriates looking for health insurance in Turkey. This comprehensive health insurance provides coverage internationally, including in Turkey, and will allow individuals to seek treatment in private facilities. Additionally, this expatriate health insurance in Turkey provides comprehensive coverage includes doctor office visit, prescriptions, hospitalization, emergency evacuation, and repatriation. Contact one of our licensed agents for further information on this plan or to help select the right plan for you.

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