Why Albania’s Healthcare System Is Great for Expats

Let’s be real— one of the biggest worries about moving to a new country is healthcare. What happens if you get sick? Will you be able to find a good doctor? And, most importantly, will it cost a fortune?  

If you’re thinking about moving to Albania, you can relax . Healthcare here is affordable, accessible, and constantly improving . While it’s not as high-tech as what you might find in Germany or the U.S., you’ll still get good care without draining your bank account.  

So, if you’re wondering what to expect, here’s a breakdown of how healthcare in Albania works for expats —without any confusing medical jargon.  

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1. Healthcare in Albania Is Actually Affordable  

Let’s start with the best part: you won’t go broke if you need to see a doctor in Albania.  

Here’s a rough idea of what things cost:  

• Doctor’s visit (private clinic): €20–€50  

• Specialist consultation (no referral needed!): €40–€100  

• Prescription medication: Often way cheaper than in Western Europe  

• Emergency treatment at public hospitals: Completely free, even for expats  

For a lot of people moving here, this is a game-changer. No surprise medical bills, no overpriced insurance policies—just straightforward, affordable care.  

Many expats even skip health insurance altogether because out-of-pocket costs are so low. If you do want extra coverage, private insurance is available for €30–€100 per month , which is nothing compared to what you’d pay elsewhere.  

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2. Public Healthcare—Free & Available to Everyone  

Yes, Albania has a public healthcare system , and if you’re a resident, you can use it for free . The biggest public hospitals include:  

• QSUT (Mother Teresa Hospital) in Tirana – The country’s largest hospital, handling everything from surgery to serious illnesses.  

• Trauma Hospital in Tirana – The go-to place for emergencies and accidents.  

• Regional hospitals – Found in every major city, like Saranda, Vlora, and Durres.  

Public hospitals are a solid option for emergencies and basic care . The downside? They can be crowded, and wait times can be long. But if you need urgent medical attention, you’ll be treated—whether you have insurance or not.  

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3. Private Clinics—Fast, Reliable, and Still Affordable  

Most expats prefer to go private for routine check-ups and specialist visits because:  

✔ You get an appointment quickly – No waiting weeks or months.  

✔ Many doctors speak English – Super helpful if your Albanian isn’t great.  

✔ The facilities are modern – Better equipment, shorter wait times, and more personal attention.  

If you need something non-urgent, like a blood test, a dermatologist, or a general check-up , private clinics are the way to go. They’re still way cheaper than in most Western countries , and the service is fast and professional .  

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4. Getting Medication Is Super Easy  

Need antibiotics? Painkillers? Allergy meds? You’ll have no trouble finding them in Albania.  

✔ Pharmacies are everywhere – You won’t need to walk far to find one.  

✔ Many medications don’t require a prescription – Including antibiotics.  

✔ Prices are super low – Expect to pay much less than in Western Europe or the U.S.  

Even better? Pharmacists here are knowledgeable and often speak English or Italian. For minor issues, a quick chat with a pharmacist can save you a trip to the doctor.  

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5. Emergency Care—You’ll Be Taken Care Of, No Matter What 

If you ever have a serious medical emergency , don’t worry—you will get treated. 

Here’s what you need to know: 

• Call 127 for an ambulance. Response times vary, but they’re fairly quick in major cities. 

• Public hospitals handle emergencies well. You’ll get treated at Trauma Hospital in Tirana or the nearest regional hospital. 

• Private hospitals can treat you faster, but they’re not free. If you need quick service, some private clinics offer emergency care for a fee . 

If you’re living on the coast (Saranda, Vlora, Himara), regional hospitals can handle most emergencies , and for serious cases, patients are transferred to Tirana . 

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6. Dental & Eye Care—High Quality, Low Prices 

This might surprise you, but Albania is an amazing place for dental and eye care. 

• Dental cleanings cost around €20–€30 

• Fillings are €30–€50 

• Eye exams + prescription glasses? About €50 total. 

• Dental implants are 50–70% cheaper than in Western Europe! 

A lot of people come to Albania just for dental work because the quality is excellent, and the prices are insanely low. 

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7. Living in Albania Is Naturally Good for Your Health 

One of the best things about life in Albania? You might not need the doctor as often. 

✔ Fresh, organic food – The Mediterranean diet here is full of seafood, olive oil, and fresh produce. 

✔ Less stress, slower pace – No more rushing everywhere; life here is more relaxed. 

✔ Sea air & sunshine – If you’re living on the coast, you’re breathing fresh air every day. 

Many expats say that after moving to Albania, they feel healthier, more active, and less stressed —which is the best kind of healthcare! 

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Final Thoughts: Is Healthcare in Albania Good for Expats?

If you’re thinking about moving to Albania, healthcare should NOT be something you worry about.

✔ Public healthcare is free for residents.

✔ Private clinics offer fast, affordable care.

✔ Pharmacies are everywhere, and medications are cheap.

✔ Emergency treatment is available to everyone.

✔ Health insurance is optional, but private insurance is affordable.

So, whether you’re a digital nomad, retiree, or investor looking to settle in Albania, you can feel confident knowing you’ll be taken care of if you need medical help.

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