Montenegro has been gaining popularity among expats due to its scenic landscapes, rich history, and relatively affordable cost of living. However, when considering relocating to a new country, one of the most crucial aspects to assess is its healthcare system.
For expats living in Montenegro or those planning to move, understanding how healthcare works, whether public or private, is essential. This guide explores all the critical information about Montenegro healthcare for expats, to make it as easy as possible for those coming to this country to navigate the system.
Montenegro Healthcare System Overview
Montenegro’s healthcare system operates on a social health insurance model, which was revised in 2022 to be fully funded by taxes. As cited on the official website of the government of Montenegro, currently, over 95% of the Montenegrin population is covered by this system. The Ministry of Health, the Health Insurance Fund, and public and private healthcare institutions share responsibilities in providing medical services nationwide.
The organisation of health care in Montenegro is structured into three tiers: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Primary care is delivered through general practitioners (GPs) and family doctors, while more complex cases are referred to specialist clinics or hospitals. The Clinical Centre of Montenegro, the country’s primary referral hospital, provides tertiary care, which includes highly specialised treatments.
One of the core challenges facing the Montenegro healthcare system is the fragmented collection of health data and the need for a quality control system in healthcare institutions. As a result, the Ministry of Health has sought assistance from the European Union (EU) to bolster institutional capacity and improve healthcare quality.
Is Healthcare in Montenegro Good?
The quality of healthcare in Montenegro varies, with some expats noting that public facilities may only sometimes meet the standards they are used to in Western Europe or North America. However, the private healthcare sector has been developing rapidly, offering higher service and comfort.
For routine treatments and general healthcare needs, Montenegro offers competent care, but for more complex or specialised procedures, expats may prefer to seek care abroad in nearby countries like Serbia, Italy, or Croatia.
Is Healthcare Free in Montenegro?
Healthcare in Montenegro is free at the point of delivery for those who are insured under the social health insurance system. However, there are out-of-pocket expenses for certain medications, diagnostic tests, and elective procedures that national health insurance may not fully cover. For those who do not have residency or health insurance, the costs of medical treatments can be significantly higher, making private health insurance a wise option.
Public Healthcare in Montenegro
Public healthcare in Montenegro is available to all residents, including expats with valid residency permits. The system is primarily funded through social contributions and taxation, with services being generally low-cost or free for insured individuals.
Most Montenegrin citizens and legal residents are assigned a family doctor at their local health centre, where they can receive primary care services. Patients are referred to secondary or tertiary healthcare facilities for more specialised treatments.
The public healthcare system includes a network of 18 health centres, seven general hospitals, three specialised hospitals, and the Clinical Centre of Montenegro, which handles more complex medical cases.
However, public facilities may experience long waiting times for non-urgent treatments and may only sometimes have the latest medical equipment. Due to these limitations, many expats opt for private healthcare options for more immediate and specialised care.
Private Healthcare in Montenegro for Expats
In recent years, the private healthcare sector in Montenegro has grown considerably. Expats often prefer private healthcare for its higher quality of services, shorter waiting times, and access to more modern medical equipment. Private clinics and hospitals are primarily concentrated in urban centres such as Podgorica, Tivat, and Kotor, with facilities catering specifically to the needs of foreign residents and visitors.
Porto Montenegro introducing Poliklinika Milmedika was one significant development in healthcare in Montenegro. Milmedika in Tivat provides various services catering to locals and expats, including general practice, diagnostics, and specialist consultations. With state-of-the-art equipment and a focus on high-quality patient care, this facility has quickly become a top choice for expats living in or visiting the Porto Montenegro area.
Additionally, Milmedika operates in line with international healthcare standards, ensuring that expats receive the care they expect from private healthcare facilities in their home countries.
Health Insurance in Montenegro for Expats
If you are living in Montenegro as an expat, you will have several options regarding health insurance. The Montenegro healthcare system offers public health insurance for residents, and private health insurance is also available for those seeking additional coverage.
Public Health Insurance in Montenegro
Expats who have residency permits and are employed in Montenegro typically contribute to the country’s social health insurance system through their salary. These contributions give them access to the same healthcare services as Montenegrin citizens, including free or low-cost consultations, treatments, and prescriptions in the public system.
However, public insurance may only cover some things. Some medications, diagnostic tests, and specialised treatments may require out-of-pocket payments or supplemental insurance. For instance, while primary emergency care is covered, more advanced medical procedures or treatments may not be fully reimbursed.
Private Health Insurance in Montenegro
Obtaining private health insurance is advisable for expats who prefer private healthcare or want more comprehensive coverage. Private insurance can cover medical expenses not included in the public system, such as access to private hospitals and clinics, shorter waiting times, and specialist treatments. Many international health insurance companies offer plans for expats living in Montenegro, making it easy to secure the level of coverage needed for peace of mind.
It is recommended to compare plans from multiple providers to ensure the best fit for your medical needs and budget. Companies like Cigna, Allianz, and Bupa provide international health insurance plans that can be tailored to expats living in Montenegro.
Does Montenegro Accept the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is not accepted in Montenegro as the country is not a member of the European Union (EU). However, Montenegro has bilateral healthcare agreements with several European countries, including Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, which allow citizens of these countries to receive certain healthcare services under the public health insurance system.
EU citizens who plan to stay in Montenegro for an extended period should obtain local health insurance or consider private insurance to cover any medical costs that may arise during their stay.
Medical Facilities in Montenegro
Montenegro offers a mix of public and private medical facilities. While the public sector provides essential healthcare services, private hospitals and clinics are generally preferred by expats for their superior service, modern equipment, and shorter waiting times. Some of the critical healthcare facilities in the country include:
- Clinical Centre of Montenegro (Podgorica): The largest medical facility in the country, providing tertiary care and specialist services.
- General Hospitals: Located in cities like Bar, Cetinje, and Nikšić, offering secondary healthcare services.
- Private Clinics: Facilities like the Milmedika Polyclinic in Tivat offer comprehensive healthcare services emphasising quality care for expats and international visitors.
Expats in Montenegro often find that private clinics, especially those in tourist areas, offer services in English, making it easier to navigate the healthcare system. Moreover, the increasing number of healthcare providers catering to the international community ensures that expats receive a higher standard of care.
Montenegro Healthcare for Families – Pregnancy, Childcare, and Pediatric Services
Understanding the healthcare services available for pregnancy, childbirth, and pediatric care is essential for families living in Montenegro or planning to move. Public healthcare in Montenegro provides prenatal and postnatal care, which includes regular check-ups, ultrasound services, and childbirth in state hospitals.
While public hospitals offer competent maternity services, many expats opt for private clinics to ensure more personalised care, shorter wait times, and access to modern facilities.
Private hospitals and clinics, such as Poliklinika Milmedika in Tivat, are equipped to provide high-quality care throughout pregnancy and childbirth, offering additional comforts such as private rooms, experienced specialists, and English-speaking staff.
Pediatric services are widely available in both public and private sectors, with routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency care offered for children. However, for more specialised pediatric care, some expats may choose to seek treatment abroad.
Overall, Montenegro provides reliable healthcare options for families, ensuring that pregnancy, childcare, and pediatric needs are met, with a growing number of private facilities catering to the specific needs of expat families.
Montenegro Healthcare Spending
As we already said, Montenegro’s healthcare system is funded primarily through a tax-based system, which was fully implemented in 2022. This shift aimed to ensure broader population coverage, with the health insurance law revisions of 2017 extending entitlement to healthcare services based on residency, bringing coverage close to 100%.
According to a study by the World Health Organisation, in 2019, public health expenditure amounted to 5% of the country’s GDP, aligning with the average of South-Eastern Europe but remaining below the European Union average of 6%. However, out-of-pocket payments remain a significant burden, making up 39% of current healthcare spending.
This heavy reliance on private contributions, especially for outpatient medications and dental care, has led to a considerable number of households facing catastrophic healthcare costs. Moreover, Montenegro faces challenges such as the outmigration of healthcare professionals, high referral rates to specialised services due to limited primary care capabilities, and health system inefficiencies, further straining healthcare spending.
Montenegro healthcare spending per capita in 2022Source: healthdata.org
How Will Living in Montenegro Benefit Your Health?
Living in Montenegro can offer several health benefits, mainly due to the country’s natural environment and lifestyle. Montenegro boasts clean air, a Mediterranean climate, and access to nature, which can promote physical and mental well-being.
Montenegro weather – the mild climate, with over 200 sunny days a year, encourages an active outdoor lifestyle, whether swimming in the Adriatic and enjoying all the health benefits of living by the sea, hiking in the mountains, or water sports along the coast. Fresh, locally grown food is abundant, promoting a healthy Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and seafood.
The relaxed pace of life can also reduce stress levels and improve mental health, so many also choose to retire in Montenegro. Moreover, smaller towns’ strong sense of community provides emotional support, contributing to a higher quality of life. For expats seeking a healthier lifestyle, Montenegro perfectly balances natural beauty, outdoor activities, and an excellent opportunity for a wellness lifestyle.
Healthcare in Montenegro is crucial for expats living in or moving to the country. While the public healthcare system offers essential services, many expats choose private healthcare for quicker, more comprehensive care.
Whether through public health insurance or private coverage, ensuring access to adequate healthcare is a priority for a smooth transition to life in Montenegro. With the proper planning and health insurance coverage, expats can rest assured that they will be well taken care of in Montenegro.