Healthcare in Serbia offers a blend of universal public healthcare and a growing private sector, ensuring access to medical care for residents and citizens.
Whether you’re a local, an expat, or a medical tourist, understanding how the health system works can help you make informed decisions about your health in Serbia.
In this guide you will learn about:
The Serbian Healthcare System
The Serbian healthcare system combines both private and public sectors. Here is how they are divided:
- Public: The public healthcare system is based on universal health insurance, known as the National Health Insurance Fund, which provides access to medical services for most residents. The public healthcare system is funded through contributions from employed Serbian residents and the Serbian government.
- Private: Most Serbian residents opt for private healthcare in Serbia. The wait times are reduced and there are better healthcare facilities. While the costs are already significantly less than in the US and western Europe most choose to take out private health insurance to ensure they are covered.
Who can get universal healthcare in Serbia?
Public healthcare in Serbia is available to the following people:
- Citizens (those with a Serbian passport)
- Legal residents
- Students
- Retirees
- Unemployed citizens and residents
- Employees that contribute to the health insurance fund
The Serbian healthcare system has improved significantly since 2019. The country is determined to create a universal healthcare system that is accessible to all citizens, legal residents, and employees that contribute to the health insurance fund.
While 98% of the population relies on the Serbian health insurance plan, it’s important to recognize that there are still some groups that are not receiving the care needed. Seen predominantly in the most economically disadvantaged groupings, the Serbian healthcare system is doing all it can to ensure everyone has adequate access to the care and facilities needed.
What is covered by Serbian universal healthcare?
Serbia’s universal health care system aims to provide all Serbian residents with comprehensive coverage. The following is generally covered by the National Health Insurance Fund:
- Primary healthcare services
- Specialist care
- Hospital care
- Maternity and childcare services
- Prescription medications
- Rehabilitation services
- Mental health services
- Emergency care
Private Healthcare in Serbia
While the Serbian National Health Insurance Fund is available to foreign nationals with legal residency, most opt for private health insurance in Serbia. This allows for access to private healthcare which offers shorter wait times and better facilities than the public healthcare system.
Luckily, private health insurance in Serbia is significantly cheaper than in the US and other western European countries, making it more accessible. Depending on the plan you may pay a shortfall for certain medical services, or they may be covered in full.
Is Healthcare Free in Serbia: Understanding the Costs
Cost of public healthcare in Serbia
Receiving healthcare in Serbia is not entirely free. The public healthcare system in Serbia is funded through a mandatory health insurance contribution of 10.3% of one’s salary that is automatically deducted.
While most health services are covered, about 38% of healthcare expenses are paid for out of pocket by Serbian residents. This can include copayments on medications, procedures, and medical services that are not covered in full. Still, the cost of living in Serbia is significantly less than other countries in western Europe and the US, making the country a popular option for potential foreign investors.
Cost of private healthcare in Serbia
The cost of private healthcare in Serbia ranges based on the service and specialty. For example, a consultation with a general practitioner could set you back between €20-€50, while seeing a specialist could range from €50-€100.
However, most expats in Serbia choose to obtain private health insurance to ensure they are covered. The price of health insurance in Serbia ranges significantly depending on the plan, who needs coverage, and the type of coverage. Basic plans start from €500 per year but this can go up significantly.
Serbia’s Healthcare Ranking
Based on the 2021 Global Health Security Index report, Serbia ranked 59th out of a total of 195 countries. The report is based on several factors including health security, the overall strength of the healthcare system, and how well countries can follow global standards.
For example, under the category “compliance with international norms” the global average was 47.8, Serbia ranked 51.4. Under the category “healthcare access”, the global average was 55.2, Serbia ranked 61.
How can foreign nationals qualify for universal healthcare in Serbia?
The Serbia Residency by Investment program is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to obtain residency in Serbia. After three years of residency, applicants can apply for permanent residency in Serbia, allowing them to qualify for the National Health Insurance Fund.
The Serbia Residency by Investment program offers applicants a way to invest in Serbian real estate in exchange for residency in the country. One of the top benefits of the program is that there is no minimum investment requirement, and the property can be located anywhere in Serbia.
Serbia is a fantastic country, offering a world of opportunity for investors and their families. Whether you’re looking for a more cost-effective entry into European investment, a lower cost of living, or want to invest in a stable economy, Serbia offers a wealth of potential.
Important to note: You will need private health insurance to qualify for the program before applying for permanent residency.
Read our Serbia Residency by Investment Guide
What to Do in Case of Emergency in Serbia
While nobody likes to think about it, knowing what to do in case of emergency is extremely important, particularly if you’re not in your home country.
In case of a medical emergency in Serbia, the first thing to do is dial 112 and request an ambulance. This is where knowing what you are covered for medically while visiting Serbia is so important as it will dictate which hospital you are taken to.
Be sure to always keep your health insurance information on you as you’ll need this when you get to the hospital. It’s also best to read through your health insurance information to know who to call in case of emergency. If you’re on a global plan there is generally a universal number with someone available 24 hours a day to advise what to do in specific countries.
Hospitals in Serbia
Knowing where to find a hospital or medical facility in Serbia can come in handy. Here are some of the hospitals in Serbia and where you can find them:
Public hospitals in Serbia
- Clinical Center of Serbia (KCS) – Belgrade
- Military Medical Academy (VMA) – Belgrade
- Clinical Center of Vojvodina – Novi Sad
- University Children’s Clinic – Belgrade
- Clinical Center Niš – Niš
Private hospitals in Serbia
- Bel Medic General Hospital – Belgrade
- NEW Hospital– Novi Sad
- Nikolov Gynecological Hospital – Kragujevac
- MediGroup Hospitals – Belgrade
- Sante Plus Hospital – Belgrade
Pros and Cons of Healthcare in Serbia
Pros of healthcare in Serbia
There are a range of pros to the Serbian healthcare system, including:
- A growing private healthcare system: There is a growing private health sector with a range of facilities and specialists available throughout the country.
- Medical tourism: Serbia is quickly becoming known as a hub for medical tourism. The lower costs paired with the high quality of medical services make it the ideal option for international patients.
- Affordable services: Compared with countries in the EU and the US, health services in Serbia are significantly cheaper. This includes private health insurance options.
- Skilled medical professionals: Serbia has a highly educated medical workforce coming from a range of internationally recognized medical schools in the country.
Cons of healthcare in Serbia
Here are some of the cons of healthcare in Serbia:
- Out of pocket expenses: The Serbian health insurance fund has taken a lot of the medical expense burdens off Serbian citizens. However, Serbians are still paying close to 40% out of pocket expenses for services not covered under the fund.
- Limited access in rural areas: Major cities and more populated areas have an extensive array of medical facilities available. More rural areas may have fewer resources.
- Language barrier: Most healthcare providers speak Serbian predominantly; this may cause issues when trying to communicate during your appointment. However, most specialists in major cities speak some level of English.
What is healthcare like in Serbia?
Like all countries, the Serbian healthcare system has its pros and cons. Healthcare in Serbia has seen a dramatic improvement in recent years with the roll out of the compulsory health insurance contributions which contribute to the national health insurance fund. This alone has made healthcare much more accessible to citizens and residents of Serbia.
While the wait times may be long, there is no question that the overall healthcare system has seen a dramatic positive impact on accessibility and quality of care. The longer wait times are often attributed to the need for qualified health professionals, like many countries in the European Union, the public healthcare system does not have enough professionals to handle the growing demand on the system.
However, despite this, the growing number of health institutions offering health services throughout Serbia is helping propel the country to greater heights. The Serbian Ministry of Health is determined to not only meet and exceed life expectancy rates but to improve the primary health care services on offer throughout the country.
Frequently Asked Questions About Healthcare in Serbia
Is healthcare free in Serbia?
Serbia’s healthcare system is funded through mandatory health insurance contributions, equivalent to 10.3% of payroll taxes. This system ensures broad access to comprehensive health services for all residents. However, 38% of healthcare expenses in Serbia are still covered directly out of pocket.
Is healthcare good in Serbia?
Healthcare in Serbia is on par with most of Europe. The public healthcare system is accessible and affordable but does have longer waiting times. The private sector in Serbia is growing and affordable, offering more facilities and insurance options. Generally, you will find better medical equipment and options for services in urban areas and major cities.
Is Serbia good for medicine?
Serbia is known for its skilled medical professionals and growing private healthcare sector. It has recognized medical schools and hospitals, making it a fantastic destination for medical education and healthcare services.
How does healthcare work in Serbia?
The Serbian healthcare system is divided into public and private. Serbian public healthcare is funded by the government and through mandatory contributions from employees in Serbia. Public healthcare is available to Serbian citizens and legal residents who pay contributions or have contributed. The private healthcare system is growing with facilities and private insurance options increasing year on year.
How does Serbia’s healthcare system rank globally?
Based on the 2021 Global Health Security Index report, Serbia ranked 59th out of a total of 195 countries.
Are there private healthcare options in Serbia?
Yes, there are a range of private healthcare options available in Serbia. Whether you want to see a private primary care system provider or visit a private hospital, there are options available, predominantly in major cities.
Is universal healthcare available in Serbia?
Yes, universal healthcare is available in the republic of Serbia, covering citizens, residents, and other eligible groups through the national health insurance system.
Can foreigners access healthcare in Serbia?
Yes, foreigners with residency permits can access public healthcare. However, temporary visitors usually need private health insurance (voluntary health insurance) for medical services.
What is the average life expectancy in Serbia?
The average life expectancy in Serbia is approximately 76 years, reflecting the country’s healthcare advancements and ongoing public health initiatives.
Do doctors in Serbia speak English?
In major cities, most doctors and specialists will know some English as they are major tourist hubs. However, if you’re planning to live in Serbia, learning Serbian is highly
