The Turkish health system is highly complex. A host of
public, semi-public and private institutions are engaged in financing and
delivering healthcare in Turkey, from the Ministry of Health to Social
Insurance Organisations to the army. Most of the health services, however,
are supplied under three autonomous systems: the Ministry of Health; the
Social Insurance System; and medical schools.
All Turkish
citizens in employment (and their husband or wife and children) receive free
health care since their employer pays a contribution on their behalf to the
SSK (Social Insurance Association). Unfortunately, Turkeys social security
system has not traditionally supported those out of work or citizens who
work unofficially. However, recent legislation means that unemployed
citizens will be able to receive health services if they match the
contributions. Turkish citizens who are retired also qualify for free health
service.
Turkish citizens
who can afford it tend to insure themselves with private insurance
companies. This gives them the opportunity to use the modern private
hospitals which exceed even the highest international standards. A great
number of Turkish doctors and dentists speak a foreign language,
particularly at major hospitals.
Doctors Tips
There is a risk
of malaria in south-eastern Turkey, but not in the main tourist areas to the
west and south-west - although mosquitoes can still be an irritation in
summer. Tell your doctor where you’re going and they will advise you on the
necessary medical precautions.· Help prevent mosquito bites by wearing
light-coloured clothing, long trousers and long-sleeved shirts; use mosquito
repellents containing the compound DEET on exposed areas; sleep under a
mosquito net impregnated with mosquito repellent (it may be worth taking
your own) and refrain from using perfumes and aftershave.· Most tap water in
the larger towns and cities has been chlorinated, but bottled water is still
recommended for drinking. · Food from street vendors should be treated with
caution.
