Healthcare in Moldova

Moldova operates a universal healthcare system, but the quality and infrastructure lag significantly behind Western European standards.

Public Healthcare System

Coverage: All residents have access to public healthcare

Quality: Below Western European standards

Outdated facilities in many areas
Limited medical equipment
Long wait times for non-emergency care
Rural areas particularly underserved

Language: Limited English-speaking staff; Romanian and Russian primary languages

Costs: Free or low-cost for residents with contributions

Private Healthcare

Quality: Significantly better than public system

Modern facilities in Chisinau
Better-trained doctors, many with Western education
English-speaking staff more common
Shorter wait times

Costs:

Private insurance: €50-150/month
Out-of-pocket consultation: €20-50
Specialists: €30-80

Major Private Providers in Chisinau:

MedClinica
Galaxia Medical Center
Dendix (dental)

Health Insurance for Expats

Mandatory: Health insurance required for all visa applications

Options:

International insurance (recommended for comprehensive coverage):

Full coverage including evacuation
€80-200/month depending on age and coverage
Valid worldwide

Local private insurance:

€50-150/month
Adequate for routine care
May not cover evacuation

Public insurance (if employed):

Mandatory contribution: 9% of salary
2026 fixed rates: 2,527 or 5,686 MDL depending on category

Medical Services Quality

Adequate for:

Routine check-ups
Common illnesses
Minor injuries
Dental care (good quality, very affordable)

Consider evacuation/travel for:

Complex surgeries
Serious conditions
Specialized treatments
Cancer care

Pharmacies

Availability: Widespread in cities, limited in rural areas

Costs: Medications much cheaper than Western Europe

Prescription requirements: Some medications available over-the-counter that require prescriptions elsewhere

Language: Some English-speaking pharmacists in Chisinau

Emergency Services

Emergency Number: 112 (EU-wide standard)

Ambulance: Available but response times vary

Emergency rooms: Public hospitals have emergency departments

Recommendations for Expats

Purchase comprehensive international health insurance with evacuation coverage
Budget for private healthcare for better quality and English-speaking doctors
Keep emergency funds for potential medical evacuation
Dental care is affordable—take advantage of lower costs
Bring prescription medications or ensure availability before moving

Pro Tips

•Get comprehensive international insurance—public system not recommended for expats
•Private clinics in Chisinau offer Western-standard care at fraction of Western prices
•Dental care is excellent and very affordable compared to Western Europe
•Keep evacuation coverage for serious medical issues
•Learn basic Romanian medical terms or bring translator for appointments

Healthcare