Healthcare System in Hungary: everything you need to know

How does the Hungarian healthcare system work?

Hungary has a universal healthcare system which provides coverage for all its citizens. It is not considered among the best healthcare systems in Europe, let alone the world, but it meets the standards especially considering the healthcare services provided in the big cities.

The fund that finances the health system is called the Health Insurance Fund (HIF), and it does so through general taxes, employee taxes and co-payments on auxiliary services. Co-payments are charged on prescriptions, rehabilitation services and dental health care, which is one way of financing the system. On average, workers have 3% of their salary deducted, and employers contribute an additional 15%.

Those with no ability to pay, children, people with disabilities, the unemployed and retirees have access to the system completely free of charge.

There is also a private health care system in Hungary which has the best doctors in the country. This is because the salaries for doctors in the public system are very low. The private system has better technology, better facilities and reduced waiting times, which is why people who can afford to pay opt for private insurance.

How does the health care system for foreigners work?

Foreigners who are living in Hungary for work or education can join the public health care system. If you are a resident of a European Union country, you can present your European Health Insurance Card and you will receive the care you need. British citizens can receive medical care completely free of charge.

If you work in Hungary, a percentage of your salary will automatically be deducted for health care. To register for the system you must present your ID, proof and residence permit and you will be given your national health card at the National Health Insurance offices.

On the other hand, if you are traveling to Hungary for tourism, before your trip you should hire international travel insurance with coverage in the country. If you suffer an accident or have an emergency, you will receive basic emergency care and will have to pay for the service. If you have an accident or serious illness and do not have health insurance, treatment costs could be very high.

To purchase travel insurance, go to InternationalHealth.com and find the best insurance plans for your trip to Hungary.

What should I do if I have an emergency in Hungary?

Like all other countries members of the European Union, you can dial 112 in case of emergencies. This is a general emergency system and can be dialed free of charge from any mobile or landline phone.

Other emergency numbers are:

Police: 107
Ambulance: 104
Firefighters: 105

Remember that even if you do not have health insurance, emergency care will always be provided if you require it. You will then have to pay for the service. 

How do pharmacies operate in Hungary?

You can identify pharmacies in Hungary by a characteristic green cross at their entrance. There you will find the medicines you need as well as hygiene and beauty products.

You can buy prescription drugs as long as the prescription is issued by a local doctor, you cannot present a prescription written by a foreign doctor at a local pharmacy. You may be asked, before traveling, for details of the medication you take, what you use it for and the dosage, so that they can suggest which local remedy will work for you.

If you are enrolled in the local system and take medication in a hospital while you are hospitalized, there is no charge. In pharmacies there are co-payments ranging from 50% to 0% of the price of the medication. Medications with 0% co-payments are charged at a flat rate of about 11 euros.  

Entry requirements for Hungary

There are currently no restrictions to enter Hungary. All Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted. Remember to check if your country of nationality requires a visa to travel to the European Union.