Public or Private? | The Healthcare System in Turkey

Turkey, a country bridging Europe and Asia, has made remarkable strides in healthcare reform over the past two decades, establishing a comprehensive universal healthcare system. Located at this strategic crossroads, Turkey serves a population of over 84 million people and has become known for its rapidly modernizing healthcare infrastructure, competitive prices for private care, and growing medical tourism sector.

For expats considering a move to Turkey, understanding the healthcare system is essential. The country has become increasingly welcoming to foreigners, with many hospitals in major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir offering English-language services. The combination of affordable private care, improving public facilities, and high-quality medical tourism infrastructure makes it an attractive destination for those seeking reliable healthcare access.

Turkey's healthcare system operates through a universal health insurance system called SGK (Sosyal Güvenlik Kurumu), which is mandatory for all residents, including foreigners who have been in the country for more than one year. This system ensures that all registered residents have access to basic healthcare services, while a robust private sector offers additional options for those seeking more comprehensive coverage.

The Turkish healthcare system functions at three levels:

• Primary care: Provided by family health centers (Aile Sağlığı Merkezi)
• Secondary care: State and private hospitals offering specialized treatment
• Tertiary care: University hospitals and advanced research centers

Patients in Turkey typically start with primary care and receive referrals to specialists when needed, though private healthcare allows direct access to specialists.As of 2024, Turkey spends approximately 5% of its GDP on healthcare, with significant ongoing investment in modernizing facilities and expanding services.

Structure of the Healthcare System in Turkey

Public healthcare

Turkey's public healthcare system operates under the Universal Health Insurance (SGK) scheme. All legal residents, including foreigners with resident permits, must register with SGK after one year of residency. Under this system, patients typically pay minimal fees for consultations and treatments, with most costs covered by the insurance. Primary care services at family health centers are free of charge for SGK members.

Coverage and accessibility

The Turkish health insurance system provides comprehensive coverage including:

• Primary care consultations
• Hospital treatments
• Emergency care
• Prescription medications
• Basic dental care
• Maternity services
• Preventive care
• Some rehabilitation services

Most essential medical procedures are covered under SGK, though certain elective treatments and premium services may require additional payment or private insurance.

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How to Register for Health Insurance in Turkey

To access public healthcare in Turkey:

1. Obtain a residence permit (ikamet)
2. Apply for a Turkish ID number (yabancı kimlik numarası)
3. Register with SGK at their local office
4. Choose a family doctor at your local health center
5. Receive your SGK activation and begin paying monthly premiums

Temporary residents and tourists should obtain private health insurance, as they cannot access the SGK system.

Government-run healthcare programs

The Ministry of Health oversees the Turkish healthcare system, implementing continuous improvements and expansions. The system includes special provisions for low-income residents and those with chronic conditions. Recent years have seen significant investment in modernizing public hospitals and expanding coverage to rural areas.

Private healthcare

Private healthcare in Turkey offers high-quality services often exceeding public care standards. Private hospitals frequently cater to international patients, with many achieving international accreditation. These facilities typically offer shorter waiting times, more comfortable amenities, and English-speaking staff. Private insurance can be used alongside SGK to access premium services and reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Pharmacy healthcare

Pharmacies (eczane) in Turkey are widely available and well-regulated. Prescription medications require a doctor's prescription and are partially covered by SGK. Many pharmacies have staff who speak basic English, particularly in tourist areas and major cities. Night pharmacies (nöbetçi eczane) operate on a rotating basis to provide 24/7 access to medications.

Children's Healthcare in Turkey

Pediatric care in Turkey is comprehensive and well-developed, particularly in urban areas. Children under 18 are automatically covered by their parents' SGK insurance at no additional cost. The system provides regular check-ups, vaccinations, and specialist pediatric care when needed. Public schools conduct basic health screenings, and there are specialized children's hospitals in major cities. Vaccination programs follow international standards and are provided free of charge under SGK.

Turkish Dentists

Basic dental care is covered under SGK, though many people opt for private dental treatment. Public coverage includes basic procedures such as fillings, extractions, and emergency dental care. Cosmetic dentistry and advanced procedures are typically only available through private clinics. Turkey has become a popular destination for dental tourism, with many private clinics offering high-quality care at competitive prices compared to Western countries.

Mental Healthcare in Turkey

Mental health services are available through both public and private sectors, though stigma around mental health issues remains a cultural challenge. SGK covers psychiatric consultations and most mental health medications. Major cities have mental health professionals who speak English, but availability may be limited in smaller towns. Private facilities often provide more comprehensive mental health services, including various forms of therapy and counseling.

Other Forms of Turkish Healthcare

Traditional Turkish medicine and alternative therapies are available but are generally not covered by SGK. These include traditional healing practices, thermal spa treatments (kaplıca), and herbal medicine. While these treatments are popular among locals, they should be approached with caution and discussed with primary healthcare providers. Some private insurance plans may cover certain alternative treatments.

Emergency Healthcare

Emergency services in Turkey are accessible by calling 112, with ambulance services available nationwide. Emergency care is provided to all individuals regardless of insurance status. Major hospitals have 24/7 emergency departments (acil servis), and emergency care under SGK requires only minimal co-payments. Private hospitals also provide emergency services but may require payment or private insurance coverage.

Access and Coverage for Free Healthcare in Turkey

While healthcare isn't entirely free, SGK coverage makes it very affordable. Monthly premiums are income-based, and certain groups (like low-income individuals and refugees) may receive free coverage. Emergency care is provided to everyone regardless of insurance status, though follow-up care requires coverage.

Waiting Times and Availability of Services

Waiting times vary significantly between public and private facilities. Public hospitals may have longer waiting times for non-emergency procedures, while private hospitals typically offer much shorter waits. Many public hospitals now offer online appointment systems (MHRS - Merkezi Hekim Randevu Sistemi) to manage waiting times more efficiently.

Geographic Disparities in Healthcare Access

Healthcare quality and accessibility vary between urban and rural areas. Major cities offer world-class facilities and specialized care, while rural areas may have more basic services. The government continues to invest in improving rural healthcare access through family health centers and mobile health services.

Quality of Healthcare in Turkey

Turkey's healthcare quality has improved dramatically in recent years. Many private hospitals hold international accreditations, and public facilities are continuously modernizing. The country has become a major medical tourism destination, particularly for procedures like dental work, eye surgery, and cosmetic procedures. Healthcare professionals are well-trained, with many doctors having international experience.

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Out-of-pocket Expenditure

Regional Comparison

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Useful Resources

• GlobalPassport Turkey's webpage: https://www.globalpassport.ai/destinations/turkey
• Turkey Ministry of Health: https://hsgm.saglik.gov.tr/en/