Healthcare and health insurance for expats in Bucharest

Healthcare in Bucharest is generally affordable by Western standards, but expats should ensure they have comprehensive health insurance.

During a short-term visit, EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access state healthcare here. UK citizens can make use of their Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the EHIC for UK citizens post-Brexit.

While healthcare in public facilities is free for residents, patients using private medical facilities will need to pay cash upfront before claiming back from their insurance provider.

Corruption is an unfortunate reality in Romania’s healthcare system. The prevalence of bribery, accompanied by poor salaries and unacceptable working conditions, has pushed many Romanian doctors to seek work outside the country, leaving the Romanian public healthcare system in a precarious state. Although expats will likely find adequate care at private hospitals, many expats find the facilities at public institutions to be substandard.

Pharmacies are available throughout Bucharest and some are open 24 hours a day. Expats may find that some medicines which are easily available over the counter in their home country may require a prescription in Romania.

Below are some of the most prominent hospitals in Bucharest.

Hospitals in Bucharest

Clinica Sanador Victoriei

Website: www.sanador.ro
Address: Strada Dumitru Sergiu 26-28, Sector 1

Life Memorial Hospital

Website: www.medlifeinternational.com
Address: Calea Griviței 365, Sector 1

Regina Maria Spitulal Euroclinic

Website: www.reginamaria.ro
Address: Calea Floreasca 14a, Sector 1

Expat Experiences

"Since I’m American, healthcare just about everywhere is better than my healthcare at home. I have only had one experience with the healthcare system so far and everything was really convenient. I chose to use the private healthcare network. I used a website that compiles all of the hospitals and clinics (both public and private). I searched by what service I needed and got a list of all of the specific places that did what I needed. The appointment was so easy to make. I’m used to waiting for a long time, especially to see a specialist, but I had the option of scheduling an appointment for the next day. I do have health insurance, but in this case, it was easier, faster and more convenient for me than waiting for an appointment in the public network." Read about how Jessica has adjusted to her new life in Bucharest in her interview.

Are you an expat living in Bucharest?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Bucharest. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.

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