Iceland is a small country with a population of around 350,000 people. Despite its size, it has a modern and efficient healthcare system, with a high standard of medical care. In this article, we will cover how to find and register with a local doctor in Iceland, how doctor’s appointments are paid for, and how to transfer your medical documents to a doctor in Iceland from abroad.
Finding and Registering with a Local Doctor
In Iceland, the primary healthcare system is organized around the country’s healthcare centers, known as “Heilsugæslustövar” in Icelandic. These centers provide primary care services to the general population, including consultations with doctors and nurses, vaccinations, and routine check-ups.
To find a local doctor in Iceland, you can use the website of the Icelandic Directorate of Health, which provides a comprehensive list of healthcare centers and private clinics across the country. You can also use the online service “Heilsuvera” to search for healthcare providers based on your location, language, and specialty preferences.
Once you have found a doctor or healthcare center that suits your needs, you can register as a patient by filling out a registration form and presenting your ID or passport. Registration is free of charge, and you can choose any healthcare center or doctor you prefer.
It’s worth noting that in Iceland, patients are not assigned to a specific doctor, but rather have the right to choose their healthcare provider freely. This means that you can change doctors or healthcare centers at any time if you are not satisfied with the care you receive.
Payment for Doctor’s Appointments
In Iceland, doctor’s appointments and other primary healthcare services are free of charge for Icelandic citizens and legal residents. However, non-residents may be required to pay for their medical care, either out-of-pocket or through their travel insurance.
If you are a tourist or visitor in Iceland, you can use the healthcare services provided by the healthcare centers and hospitals, but you may be required to pay for the services you receive. The cost of healthcare services can be quite high in Iceland, so it’s recommended that you have adequate travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
If you are a legal resident in Iceland, you are entitled to use the healthcare services provided by the primary healthcare system free of charge. You can also apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you are a citizen of an EU or EEA country, which will entitle you to receive necessary medical treatment during a temporary stay in Iceland.
Transferring Medical Documents
If you need to transfer your medical records to a doctor in Iceland from abroad, you can do so by contacting the Icelandic Directorate of Health. The Directorate maintains a national electronic health record system called “HeilsuNet,” which allows healthcare providers to access their patients’ medical records and test results from anywhere in the country.
To transfer your medical records to a doctor in Iceland, you will need to provide your healthcare provider with your personal identification number, which is unique to each individual in Iceland. If you do not have an Icelandic personal identification number, you can provide your name, date of birth, and any other relevant information to facilitate the transfer of your medical records.
It’s worth noting that the transfer of medical records may take some time, especially if you are transferring records from a non-EU country. Therefore, it’s recommended that you plan ahead and make arrangements for the transfer of your medical records well in advance of your appointment with a doctor in Iceland.
Finding a doctor and navigating the healthcare system can be a daunting task, especially in a foreign country. However, with some research and preparation, it is possible to find a good doctor and receive quality healthcare while living abroad.
In Iceland, as in many other countries, finding a doctor involves first registering with the national healthcare system and then selecting a doctor from the list of available providers. Doctor’s appointments are typically paid for through the national healthcare system or private health insurance, depending on your individual circumstances.
Transferring medical records can be done through physical or electronic means, but it is important to check with your new doctor’s office for specific requirements and any associated fees. By taking the necessary steps and seeking help when needed, you can ensure that your healthcare needs are met while living in Iceland.