Austria has a high-quality healthcare system that is publicly funded and available to all citizens and legal residents. In this article, we will discuss the standard of healthcare in Austria, how healthcare is paid for, the services provided by hospitals, follow-up care after hospital treatment, and the rules regarding medical treatment of foreign visitors.
Standard of Healthcare in Austria
The standard of healthcare in Austria is generally regarded as high. The country has a large number of hospitals, and medical professionals are well-trained and equipped with the latest technology. The World Health Organization ranks Austria’s healthcare system as the 14th best in the world.
The Austrian government is committed to providing its citizens with quality healthcare, and it invests heavily in the sector. As a result, most hospitals are well-equipped, and patients receive excellent care.
Healthcare Payment in Austria
In Austria, healthcare is financed by a combination of public and private funding. The country has a social health insurance system, which covers approximately 98% of the population. This system is funded by a combination of employer and employee contributions, as well as taxes.
Private insurance is also available in Austria, and many citizens choose to supplement their public health insurance with private insurance. This is especially common for individuals who want to have greater control over their medical care, such as the ability to choose their doctors or hospitals.
Hospital Services in Austria
Austria has both public and private hospitals, with the majority being public. Hospitals in Austria offer a wide range of services, including emergency care, diagnostic testing, surgery, and specialized care for chronic conditions.
Patients are generally not required to bring anything with them to the hospital, as hospitals in Austria provide all necessary medical equipment and supplies. Additionally, patients are not expected to receive care from family members or friends, as the hospital staff provides all necessary care.
Follow-Up Care in Austria
After being discharged from the hospital, patients in Austria typically receive follow-up care from their primary care physician or a specialist. This may include medication management, physical therapy, or additional diagnostic testing.
Patients may also be referred to a rehabilitation center or a nursing home for ongoing care. The type of follow-up care a patient receives will depend on their condition and the recommendations of their healthcare provider.
Medical Treatment for Foreign Visitors
Foreign visitors to Austria are entitled to receive medical treatment if they become ill or injured during their stay. However, they must have valid health insurance coverage to receive treatment.
EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to receive medical treatment in Austria. Non-EU citizens should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while in the country.
In the case of an emergency, foreign visitors can call 144 for an ambulance or go directly to the emergency department of a hospital.
In conclusion, Austria has a high-quality healthcare system that is publicly funded and available to all citizens and legal residents. The country has a large number of hospitals, and medical professionals are well-trained and equipped with the latest technology. Healthcare in Austria is financed by a combination of public and private funding, and patients receive excellent care at both public and private hospitals. After being discharged from the hospital, patients typically receive follow-up care from their healthcare provider. Foreign visitors to Austria are entitled to receive medical treatment if they have valid health insurance coverage.