How does healthcare work in Albania, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

What is the quality of healthcare in Albania?

• Albania has a universal healthcare system that has evolved over the years. Originally based on the Soviet model, it has evolved into a system similar to the Bismarckian model, financed by both mandatory and voluntary contributions, supplemented by state budgets. The healthcare system is improving, but still lags considerably behind standards in Western Europe, for example.
• As an emigrate, you have access to both public and private healthcare facilities. However, both often fall short of Western European standards (with the exception of some in Tirana), especially when it comes to medical emergencies and major interventions.
• The quality of healthcare also varies greatly between urban and rural areas. In cities such as Tirana and Durrës, hospitals and clinics are better equipped and have more modern staff and facilities than in rural areas, where healthcare is often limited.
• The cost of basic healthcare in public institutions is relatively low, but the quality is sometimes below the standard that expats are used to. For more complex medical care, many expats go to private institutions. It may be useful to learn some Albanian words or bring a translator. English is not always spoken by medical staff.
• Pharmacies are widely available, but some medicines may not be. If you need to take certain medicines regularly, you might want to bring them with you into the country. 
• Alternative medicines are also popular in Albania. The country is a major exporter of medicinal herbs.
• The emergency number in Albania is 127 for medical assistance. Make sure you know which hospitals in your area offer reliable care.

How does the public healthcare system work in Albania?

• Foreigners who are legally resident in Albania can register with the national healthcare system and apply for a health card. This gives them access to public healthcare services, such as GP visits, specialist care and hospital admissions. In any case, you contribute to the public healthcare system through taxes.
• The public hospitals are owned by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection. The government is investing in improvements, especially in the capital. For example, many new ambulances have been introduced and more and more paramedics are being recruited. Public healthcare is known for its long waiting times and limited resources, such as outdated equipment or shortages of medication.
• For registered individuals, basic healthcare is virtually free or very affordable.

How does the private healthcare system work in Albania?

• Private healthcare institutions offer a higher standard of care, with modern equipment and often English-speaking staff. Most private institutions are located in Tirana. Outside of these areas, healthcare is limited.
• Visits to private doctors and specialists can be expensive, but the costs are still considerably lower than in many other countries in Europe.
• Many expats choose private institutions, or for healthcare abroad. Insurance that covers medical evacuation is highly recommended, as private healthcare is also not well equipped for emergency care and major procedures.

How is the family doctor or general practitioner arranged in Albania?

• GPs are accessible through both the public and private healthcare systems.
• For the public system, a health card is required to visit a GP. However, many expatriates choose a private GP because of shorter waiting times and better communication (English or another second language).
• It can be useful to ask local expats for advice on a reliable GP in the area.

How is the dental care and dentist arranged in Albania?

• Public dental care is affordable, but the quality is not good and expats are advised against using it.
• There are also private dental care facilities, but these are also often discouraged.
• It can be wise to go abroad for dental care.

How is pregnancy and maternity care arranged in Albania?

• Public and private clinics offer check-ups and guidance during pregnancy. Private clinics are often recommended because of more modern facilities and a better patient experience.
• Giving birth in public hospitals is common for locals, but private hospitals offer more comfort and personal attention.
• However, because of the quality of care, it can be wise to spend your pregnancy in another country.
• Check what facilities are available in your area and ask other foreigners to share experiences.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Albania?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Albania?

• Although the government is working to improve safety in Albania, crime rates are on the rise. However, most crime is related to local disputes and foreigners are generally not affected.
• Pickpocketing and theft are common in busy cities and tourist areas, such as Tirana, Durrës and Sarandë. Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in markets and on public transport.
• Corruption within the police and government is a common problem in Albania. Expats sometimes report having to pay bribes in certain situations, although this has decreased due to reforms.
• Protests are usually peaceful. However, it may be wise to avoid such gatherings.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Albania?

• Tap water is not drinkable in Albania.
• Street food can sometimes cause food poisoning. Choose eateries that are busy and check that food is thoroughly cooked.
• Check the latest advice on vaccinations with your vaccination doctor.
• In some regions, mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, although this is rare. Use mosquito repellent, especially in summer.
• Air pollution can cause respiratory problems.
• Altitude sickness can be a problem in parts of Albania, so it is wise to read up on this if you are travelling to higher altitudes.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Albania?

• Traffic in Albania is one of the biggest challenges for expats and visitors. Infrastructure has improved in recent years, but there are still some areas of concern.
• Traffic accidents are a major problem in Albania, with the country ranking among the highest in Europe for traffic accidents. Albanians are notorious for driving, with traffic laws often ignored. Expect unexpected manoeuvres and aggressive driving.
• Consider using a driver or taxi apps such as Bolt, especially in cities.
• Road conditions vary widely. In large cities, roads are generally good, but in rural areas you may encounter unpaved or poorly maintained roads.
• There is a risk of landslides and heavy rain, especially in rural areas during the winter. Slow agricultural machinery and stray cattle also pose a danger in remote areas.
• People generally do not stop for pedestrians.
• Public transport, such as buses and minibuses (furgons), is cheap but unpredictable. There are no fixed timetables and vehicles are often overcrowded.

What are the best insurance options for backpacking, traveling, doing an internship, studying, volunteering, or working in Albania?

• Is the trip to Albania and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity?
• Insurance for backpacking and traveling in Albania
• Insurance for studying in Albania
• Insurance for internships in Albania
• Insurance for volunteering in Albania
• Insurance for digital nomads or paid work in Albania

What types of insurance should you get if you're planning to emigrate, work as an expat, or live in Albania?

• For Albania, it is strongly recommended to take out good private health insurance. This way you can use private healthcare and, with good insurance, you are also covered for the medical evacuation and repatriation when needed.
• Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries.
• International health insurance for Albania
• International travel insurance for Albania
• International life insurance for Albania
• International income protection insurance for Albania