City, Turkey
Healthcare in Istanbul: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Istanbul
Private hospitals are excellent; costs are lower than in Europe. Public hospitals are crowded. Dial 112 for ambulance.
Hospitals for foreigners in Istanbul
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Acibadem Maslak Hospital | Private international hospital with English-speaking staff |
| American Hospital Istanbul | Private, Nisantasi; international patient service |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ₺1,500–4,000 ($31–81) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Turkey: Private hospitals in big cities are modern, English-speaking and reasonably priced; state hospitals are cheap but crowded. Rural care is basic.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies (eczane) everywhere; a duty pharmacy (nöbetçi eczane) opens at night. Many medicines sold without prescription.
- Health spending: US$548 per person a year (2023); 2.2 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 112 · Ambulance 112 · Fire 112 · All emergencies 112.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Turkey, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Istanbul for foreigners?
Acibadem Maslak Hospital: Private international hospital with English-speaking staff
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Istanbul?
About ₺1,500–4,000 ($31–81) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Turkey?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Turkey expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Istanbul
Going to Istanbul solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Istanbul meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Turkey
- Istanbul Metro
- Istanbul Airport
- Istanbul Public Transport (IETT)
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.