Expat Health Insurance in Cyprus, Asia

Useful information for expatriates in Cyprus

Capital City: Nicosia
Total area: 9,251 km2
Population: 855,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time Zones by Country
Calling Code: +357 xxx

Practical Information:

Wikipedia Cyprus

Health Product: Travel Insurance and Health Insurance
Health Insurance information and Sanitary Risk: World Health Map
BLOG :Expat Health insurance Information 

Here is a brief description of the healthcare system in the country:

·      Cyprus has a universal healthcare system that provides coverage for all citizens and permanent residents. It is funded through general taxation, not insurance premiums.

·      Everyone is entitled to treatment at public clinics and hospitals run by the state. Care is generally free or low-cost at the point of service.

·      Primary care is the first point of contact for patients. General practitioners act as gatekeepers, referring to specialists and hospitals as needed.

·      There are public hospitals in major cities like Nicosia, Limassol and Larnaca. They provide the full range of medical services including emergency care.

·      Cyprus has a mix of public and private healthcare providers. Many Cypriots opt to use private facilities for quicker access to specialists and elective procedures.

·      The country has a high number of doctors, nurses and hospitals relative to the population. Medical staff tend to be well-trained professionals.

·      Key healthcare priorities include non-communicable diseases associated with lifestyle, as well as injuries from traffic accidents.

·      Pharmaceuticals are available through a combination of government subsidies and private purchases.

·      Outpatient care costs are borne by employers through mandatory healthcare funds. Expats usually need travel insurance.

Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:

·      Get comprehensive travel/expat health insurance that covers medical costs year-round in Cyprus. Public healthcare may not cover all conditions/services.

·      Register with a local GP for non-emergency care. Doctors can facilitate access to specialists and hospitals if needed.

·      Prescriptions from other countries may not be honored in Cyprus. Bring ample supplies of any regular medications.

·      Learn some basic Greek or Russian if visiting areas where English proficiency is limited, especially for medical emergencies.

·      Road traffic accidents are a leading cause of injuries. Follow road safety laws and consider additional auto insurance.

·      Heatwaves and poor air quality exacerbate respiratory problems at times. Those with existing conditions should take precautions.

·      Mosquito-borne viruses like West Nile are locally transmitted seasonally. Use insect repellent, especially near wetlands.

·      Food/water safety standards are high but hygiene practices differ. Expats may be more susceptible to diarrhea or contaminated shellfish.

·      Women should schedule routine OB-GYN screenings/tests as recommended by home countries.

·      Mental health services are developing but may not address diverse cultural needs. Consider consulting international therapists.