Healthcare in Albania

How the public system works

Healthcare is funded through the compulsory health insurance fund, with primary care delivered by health centres and family doctors, and hospital care organised regionally with the university hospital centre in Tirana at the apex. Registered residents who contribute are entitled to care; charges and coverage for non-contributors differ.

The system is chronically under-funded by European standards, informal payments have been widely documented, and equipment and staffing vary sharply between Tirana and the regions.

Private care

Private hospitals and clinics have grown quickly, concentrated in Tirana. They are used by most foreign residents and by Albanians who can afford them. Costs are far below western European levels but are paid up front or through insurance.

Some private facilities have international accreditation; check specifics rather than assuming a standard.

Pharmacies and emergencies

Pharmacies are widespread and pharmacists are a normal first stop for minor complaints. Many medicines available on prescription elsewhere are obtainable over the counter, which is convenient and also a reason to be careful.

The emergency number is 112. Ambulance response times vary greatly between Tirana and rural areas.

For visitors and residents from abroad

Albania is not in the EU, so the European Health Insurance Card does not apply. Travel or expatriate health insurance is essential, and cover should be checked specifically for repatriation and for the difference between visitor and resident status.