Moving to Antalya as a foreigner comes with challenges, especially when it comes to finding a reliable General Practitioner (GP). While the mandatory registering with the Social Security Institution (SGK) is the simplest way to access public healthcare, many foreigners opt for additional private health coverage to access private care. In this article, we’ll guide you through both options and provide a step-by-step process for finding a GP in Antalya, Private care vs Public Care.
. Public Healthcare: Register at a Local Aile Sağlığı Merkezi (Family Health Center)
Visit the Center: To access public healthcare in Turkey as a foreign resident, visit the local Aile Sağlığı Merkezi (Family Health Center) during opening hours. No appointment is necessary.
Present Your Documentation: Present your residence permit or enter your e-ikamet number to confirm your status.
Assignment of GP: Once your residency status is confirmed, you will be assigned a General Practitioner (GP), known as an “ailesaglik” in Turkish. Your GP will be responsible for all your general healthcare needs, and the services provided are free.
Important Note:
Many clinics are staffed by personnel who only speak Turkish, so it’s advisable to take a Turkish-speaking person with you. Additionally, the system operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so be prepared for possible long waits to see the doctor.
Private Healthcare (Choosing a Private GP)
Use Doktor Takvimi website: To choose a private GP, use the website Doktor Takvimi (doktortakvimi.com), which allows you to search for private GPs by location and specialty.
Advantages of Private GPs: Private GPs offer several advantages over public GPs, including shorter wait times, greater flexibility, more personalized care, and the availability of English-speaking and other foreign language personnel.
Clinic or Hospital Options: Some private GPs also have offices at private hospitals, giving you the option of seeing your private GP either at their clinic or at the private hospital.
Payment: Keep in mind that private GPs, are not covered by the public healthcare system (SGK). You will need to pay for their services out-of-pocket or with private health insurance.
Note: Since private GPs, are not covered by the public healthcare system (SGK), you will need to pay for their services out-of-pocket or with private health insurance. It is important to note here that it is mandatory for every foreign resident in Turkey to purchase a public health insurance plan (SGK) as part of their residency application.
Conclusion:
Finding a GP in Antalya is an important step in ensuring your health and well-being while living in the city. Whether you choose the public healthcare system or private healthcare, there are various options available to suit your needs. The steps we’ve covered can help guide you in finding the right GP and navigating the healthcare system in Antalya.
Thank you for reading, and we hope this information has been helpful to you! 🤩
