Healthcare

Healthcare in Serbia

Serbia offers a mix of public and private healthcare, with increasing numbers of expats opting for private care due to shorter wait times and modern facilities.

Public Healthcare System

The public system is funded through mandatory health insurance contributions (10.3% of salary). While most services are covered, the system faces challenges:

• Long waiting times for appointments and procedures
• Older equipment in some facilities
• Varying quality depending on location
• Emergency care is free for everyone, including visitors

Private Healthcare

Most expats and Serbian residents who can afford it use private healthcare:

Advantages:

• Much shorter wait times
• Modern facilities and equipment
• English-speaking staff common
• Still very affordable by Western standards

Medical Tourism

Serbia is emerging as a medical tourism destination, particularly for:

• Dental work
• Cosmetic procedures
• Eye surgery
• Orthopedic treatments

Quality is high while costs are a fraction of Western Europe or US.

Health Insurance Requirements

For residence permits: Health insurance covering at least €20,000 is mandatory.

Options:

1. Private Serbian insurance: €50-150/month depending on coverage
2. International health insurance: More expensive but covers treatment abroad
3. Travel insurance: Acceptable for short-term stays

Major Hospitals and Clinics

Belgrade:

• Bel Medic (private)
• Euromedik (private)
• MediGroup (private)
• Clinical Center of Serbia (public)

Novi Sad:

• Vizim (private)
• Klinički centar Vojvodine (public)

Pharmacies

Pharmacies (apoteke) are widely available. Many medications are available without prescription that would require one elsewhere. Pharmacists often speak English in Belgrade and can recommend basic treatments.

Tips for Expats

• Register with a private clinic upon arrival
• Keep copies of medical records from home
• Private insurance gives peace of mind and faster access
• Many doctors trained in Western Europe
• Emergency number: 194