Turkey Guide: Health

One of the most important things when going abroad is to make sure that you are covered in case of accidents or illness. Our health guide provides information on health insurance, hospitals, doctors and pharmacies.

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  Introduction

  The Turkish health care system

  On paper, Turkey provides health care for all its citizens (including the homeless). In reality, its embattled public health system is fraught with inefficiency and low quality care.

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  Public healthcare

  Public hospitals in Turkey

  If you are legally employed in Turkey, or you are the spouse of a Turkish national, you are eligible for treatment in any public hospital. Not that you´ll necessarily want it.

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  Private healthcare

  Private health insurance in Turkey

  Due to the poor quality of most Turkish hospitals and the difficulties presented by the language barrier, most foreigners pay for private insurance. This gives them access to an extensive and well-staffed network of private hospitals (özel hastane) and clinics.

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  Emergencies

  Emergency numbers and ambulances

  Dial 112 if you want an ambulance (ambulans). Depending on the severity of your condition, however, you may prefer a taxi.

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  Pharmacies, dentists, ophthalmologists

  Turkish health services

  While you will have access to all the services you had at home in any major Turkish city, expect the quality of these services to vary wildly depending on the provider.

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