Healthcare – Turkey

Often when visiting a foreign country, health problems can seem daunting. Here we give you an insight on what to expect when travelling to Turkey.

Owing to limited funding, Turkish State hospitals don’t always have the same standards as we do “back home”. Ironically however, they have some of the most well-known and respected doctors on staff, particularly at the university hospitals. There are plans afoot to improve the standards in state hospitals and this should improve the problem.

Private Healthcare has flourished in Turkey in the last decade owing to the long queues and impersonal service in state run hospitals. Care standards in private hospitals are usually on a par with international standards in terms of expertise and equipment. Most private hospitals have contracts with various insurance companies so it is important to make sure you have good health insurance.

The main centres are well served with hospitals some of which have direct agreements with BUPA. There are private clinics in the tourist areas of Bodrum, Antalya and Marmaris

Pharmacies are open from 9.00 to 19.00hrs from Monday to Saturday and there is usually an emergency pharmacy in each area.

Health Risks

There is a risk of malaria in the south-eastern part of the country, but not in the main tourist areas in the west and south-west of the country, although mosquitoes can still be an irritation in summer.

If you are travelling to Turkey , you should consult your usual healthcare provider for travel medical advice before departure. The risk from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low, provided you avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.

For further information on health, check the Department of Health's website at: www.dh.gov.uk

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