Health insurance
Every Turkish working citizen pays an insurance premium on a monthly basis that automatically entitles him and his family for insurance coverage by SSK (social insurance) that is owned by the state.
The service is however not very good.
Private insurance
Private insurance is a big and fast growing business in Istanbul. Most expatriates and citizens who can afford more, opt for private insurances. Two main kinds of coverage include:
- Yatarak: Covers all expenses of health problems that result in a stay at the hospital.
- Ayakat ve Yatarak: This secures all health expenses depending on the insurance agreed upon. Generally, the person might need to bear about 20 percent of costs that don’t result in hospitalization. All hospitalization cost will be covered.
Expatriates also have the option of taking out an expatriate medical insurance offered by private companies. This could be slightly pricey but well worth the effort. It is recommended that you check with a financial advisor on the best deal and coverage available.
Update 12/06/2014
Expatriate health insurance in Turkey
With so much to deal with before leaving your home country, (taxes, moving house, paperwork etc.) the careful planning of your expatriation to Istanbul is an essential step. As far as healthcare is concerned, your local social security scheme won’t be accompanying you to your host country and, once abroad, you might be surprised by the care system you find in Turkey So, before leaving, make sure you have appropriate cover!
Designed for either short or long stays, APRIL International’s insurance policies offer protection against any problems that might arise before departure or during your time in Turkey: cancelling your trip, medical expenses following an illness or accident, needing to be repatriated, causing damage to a third party or losing your luggage.