Healthcare Information for Expatriates Living in Denmark
Often ranked as one of the happiest countries across the globe. Denmark is an expat’s dream destination because of the high standards of living it offers. Expats, as well as residents, can enjoy a convenient and luxurious lifestyle as the model welfare society. Healthcare system for expats in Denmark promotes and offers a wide range of services that are either discounted or free. If you or your kids are Lego fans, Denmark is also your best destination. Expats often choose Denmark if they are looking for enjoyable and peaceful expatriate life.
This nation’s social welfare system, complemented by equally efficient and robust healthcare facilities, will bring you peace of mind and calm when you set foot in this European country. Denmark is home to a strong network of healthcare facilities and their standards are very high. Residents, as well as Expats, can have easy access to its healthcare scheme. As an Expat, you can take advantage of the top-notch public healthcare facilities or opt for private medical care.
The Danish population generally speaks English, so finding an English-speaking doctor is quite easy. Free healthcare is available for citizens in Denmark, and the healthcare system is funded by taxes. Resident tax rates range between 40% and 60%, and the highest taxpayers are the ones who are highly paid. Since Denmark offers some of the highest salary packages in the world, paying exorbitant taxes shouldn’t be an issue for the top earners.
Global Healthcare Solutions
The healthcare system in Denmark includes primary care and secondary care sectors. All legal residents can enjoy public healthcare for free; however, expats can always go for additional coverage by purchasing private health insurance policies if they want. For general health issues, residents can contact primary care providers that include dentists, psychologists, family doctors, etc. Specialized medical treatments and hospital care are included in the secondary care sector. Referral of a general practitioner is usually needed before visiting a hospital and seeing a health specialist.
CPR Number and Yellow Card
A CPR (Central Person Register) number is necessary for anyone willing to be a part of the society in Denmark and keen to enjoy medical care benefits. After staying in Denmark for over 6 months, it is mandatory for EU and EEA nationals to register at a Borgerservice or International Citizen Service center in order to obtain a CPR number. However, non-EU nationals will have to register at an International Citizen Service center after an extended stay of more than three months. Once you get the CPR number, a health insurance card or a yellow card will be issued to you. The yellow card is a proof of insurance and allows you access to various public health services within the country.
Overview of Healthcare
Healthcare in Denmark is reputed to be one of the world’s best. You have numerous options to choose from if you are inclined to go for public healthcare facilities. You just need to have a yellow card to have access to several public health facilities. As an expat, you initially need to choose a general practitioner (GP) to oversee various non-emergency medical requirements. Getting a referral from your GP is a must if you need the services of a specialist.
The number of private healthcare facilities in Denmark is relatively lower because of the high quality of public healthcare. In recent years, the popularity and the number of private facilities have grown immensely mainly because of the fact that many employers are offering private health insurance to employees as part of the employment package. Having a private health insurance policy would allow you to use private healthcare facilities to avoid long waiting periods usually associated with public healthcare. If you are on a job assignment in Denmark, don’t forget to inquire from your employer regarding your health insurance coverage.
How the Danish Healthcare System Works for Expats
As with other Scandinavian countries, Denmark to has a world-class healthcare system, which is mostly funded by high tax rates. Having a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) would be ideal for people moving to Denmark from other European countries. This allows European expats to enjoy healthcare services for free like Danish citizens. Non-European expats should ideally invest in a good medical insurance plan before moving to Denmark because medical care can be very costly if they have to pay for it. As you gradually settle in Danish society, you can apply for a health insurance card or yellow card for hassle-free medical care across the country.
Pharmacies
Across the country, there are many pharmacies that are open 24 hours a day. Denmark has strict rules regarding the sale of medicines, so expats will need to carry prescriptions to buy them. You can purchase over-the-counter medicines at some authorized convenience stores and gas stations. The pharmacies across the country are usually open between 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from Monday to Friday. On Saturdays, they may not be open after 2:00 pm.
Emergency Medical Care
Residents in Denmark can get medical emergency assistance by calling the emergency call center number 112. Those answering this emergency number speak English, so you can expect help in a quick time. They would either recommend you to visit an emergency room directly or advise you on an alternative course of action. If you require medical help in odd hours or during holidays, you should get in touch with your area’s lægevagt service. This will help you connect with an on-call doctor for the required assistance after verifying your CPR number and knowing your current physical condition.
Best Private International Medical Insurance for Expats in Denmark
If you are a non-EU expat, you will probably need the CPR number and yellow card to enjoy public healthcare services. The medical services are mostly provided for free; however, having a global health insurance policy can be very helpful for you if you are a frequent traveler or don’t have the time to wait for medical services. Opting for an expat cover from reputed companies like Allianz Care or going for a Cigna Global international health plan can make your stay in Denmark all the more enjoyable and convenient. You can always contact Expat Financial for a quote and get the right guidance regarding Danish expatriate health insurance needs.
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