
The Hungarian healthcare system is available to all.
If you are planning to move to Hungary, you might want to learn more about the Hungarian healthcare system. In this post, we will be taking a closer look at what services are on offer and how the healthcare system works in Hungary.
Basics of the Hungarian healthcare system
Recently, the Hungarian healthcare system saw a lot of changes. The system is now primarily funded by the Health Insurance Fund (HIF) and taxes. These funds are responsible for covering recurrent healthcare costs. There is state budgetary assistance in place to cover capital costs and areas that are under-funded.
Hungarian employees pay 3% of their total income as taxes that go toward the Hungarian healthcare system. Because the system is basically privately funded, patients do still have to make co-payments on some healthcare services. These services include pharmaceuticals, dental care, and rehabilitation.
What fees are payable for Hungarian healthcare services?
If you are a Hungarian citizen or foreign national with a valid permit to live and work in Hungary, your healthcare services are covered by health insurance companies. There are no costs for healthcare services in Hungary.
Who is covered by the free healthcare in Hungary?
The free healthcare services in Hungary are available at all ambulatory and secondary hospitals in Hungary. Hungarian citizens are covered regardless of their employment status. The government pays contributions for groups such as pensioners and unemployed citizens.
If you are not a Hungarian citizen and do not have health insurance, you are only entitled to essential healthcare services. The basic healthcare services are also free of charge in the case of an emergency or acute conditions.
If you are living and working in Hungary and employed with a Hungarian company, you have the same healthcare rights as Hungarian citizens.
What healthcare services can expats expect in Hungary?
If you make payments to the HIF through your wages, you are entitled to hospital treatment at a low cost. If you are a citizen of a European Union country, you have access to ambulant treatment.
Because Hungary and the UK have a reciprocal health agreement, you are entitled to free healthcare in Hungary if you are a British national.
Who to contact for medical services in English:
If you need medical assistance of healthcare services in English, you have three options. You may choose to get in touch with one of the three emergency healthcare centres within Hungary. Details are as follows:
SOS Emergency Medical Service
Tel: 0036 1 118 8288 or 0036 1 118 8012
International Medical Services
Tel: 003 1 129 8423 or 0036 1 149 9349
Hotline 24 Hours in English
Tel: +36 1 224 9090
How we can help you
If you feel like you need any more advice or assistance on the Hungarian healthcare system, feel free to reach out to us. Our team of experts will ensure that you receive the right information you need to secure your healthcare needs for the duration of your stay in Hungary.