Healthcare in Denmark

Healthcare in Denmark is of an incredibly high standard with numerous medical facilities to choose from throughout the country. 

Denmark operates under a universal healthcare scheme, which all residents have equal access to. Most use public healthcare facilities because they are of such a high standard, but private hospitals do exist for those who prefer private care. 

Most of the Danish population speaks English, so expats should have no problem finding an English-speaking doctor.

Public healthcare in Denmark

There are plenty of excellent public healthcare facilities to choose from in Denmark. In order to access healthcare at these facilities, a public health insurance card (also known as a yellow card) must be produced.

If using public healthcare, expats will have to select a general practitioner to oversee all their non-emergency medical needs. Patients who wish to see a specialist must first get a referral from their GP. 

Private healthcare in Denmark

Because of the high standard of public healthcare, there are only a small number of private healthcare facilities in Denmark. That said, their popularity has increased in recent years and the number is growing. This growth is mostly down to an increasing number of employers offering their employees private health insurance, which enables the use of private healthcare facilities and bypasses the waiting periods often associated with public healthcare systems. Expats should enquire with their Danish employer about their health insurance policy. 

Health insurance in Denmark

Anyone working in Denmark is entitled to apply for a public health insurance card, known as a yellow card. To do so, expats will need a CPR number, which is obtained by registering at one's local International Citizen Service centre. The CPR number and yellow card can be applied for concurrently.

Pharmacies in Denmark

Throughout Denmark, it's easy to find pharmacies, some of which are open 24 hours a day. Denmark’s regulations regarding medicines are strict, so expats may need a prescription for certain medicine they could get over the counter at home.

Emergency services in Denmark

The emergency number in Denmark is 112. This service has operators who speak English, so expats can call an ambulance without having to speak Danish.