Healthcare in Hungary for Travelers: How to Find Doctors & Emergency Care

Hungary’s healthcare system provides universal coverage for citizens and residents, but as a traveler, it’s important to understand how to access medical care, what services are available, and how to find an English-speaking doctor in Budapest. This guide covers everything you need to know about healthcare in Hungary, including emergency services, private clinics, and travel health insurance.

How Hungary’s Healthcare System Works

Hungary has a public healthcare system funded through social security contributions and taxes. While residents benefit from state-funded healthcare, travelers and expats usually need private insurance to cover medical expenses. Private healthcare is widely available and often preferred due to shorter wait times and better service quality.

Public vs. Private Healthcare in Hungary

Public Healthcare

• Funded by the National Health Insurance Fund (NEAK).

• Available to Hungarian residents and those with EU health insurance (EHIC card holders).

• Emergency services are free under certain international agreements.

• Public hospitals can have long wait times.

Private Healthcare

• Faster access to doctors and specialists.

• More advanced medical technology and modern facilities.

• English-speaking doctors available at private clinics.

• Fees apply, but often covered by international health insurance.

How to Find an English-Speaking Doctor in Budapest

If you need medical assistance in Budapest, consider the following options:

In-Person Visits: Expat Medical Clinic

• Located at 1037 Budapest, Mátyáshegyi út 43.

• Offers English-speaking doctors and a full range of healthcare services.

• Contact: +36 30 9141477.

• Website: Expat Medical

Online Consultations: TravelDoctor EU

• Provides virtual doctor consultations for travelers.

• Get medical advice, prescriptions, and treatment plans remotely.

• Available for travelers across the EU.

• Online video consultations start at €18.

• Reimbursement forms for insurance purposes can be provided upon request.

• Website: TravelDoctor EU

Emergency Healthcare in Hungary

What to Do in a Medical Emergency

If you experience a medical emergency in Hungary, follow these steps:

1. Call the emergency number 112 (works across the EU).

2. You will be directed to an ambulance, police, or fire service as needed.

3. In serious cases, head to the nearest hospital emergency room (ER).

Hospitals with Emergency Departments in Budapest

• Semmelweis University Clinic (One of Hungary’s top hospitals)

• Honvéd Hospital (Well-equipped for emergencies)

• St. John’s Hospital

Costs of Healthcare in Hungary for Travelers

Understanding medical costs can help you plan ahead:

• Emergency room visit (without insurance): €50-€200.

• Private doctor consultation: €50-€100.

• Specialist consultation: €80-€150.

• Hospital stay per day: €100-€300 (varies by treatment).

- Tip: Always carry a valid travel health insurance policy to avoid high out-of-pocket medical expenses.

Pharmacies and Medication in Hungary

Pharmacies (Gyógyszertár) are widely available in Hungary. Some medications are available over the counter, but stronger prescriptions require a doctor’s approval. Most pharmacies in Budapest have at least one English-speaking pharmacist.

FAQs: Healthcare in Hungary for Travelers

1. Do tourists get free healthcare in Hungary?

Only emergency care is provided for free under specific international agreements. Otherwise, tourists need to pay for treatment or have insurance coverage.

2. What is Hungary’s emergency number?

Dial 112 for medical, police, or fire emergencies.

3. How much does a private doctor visit cost in Budapest?

A general consultation typically costs between €50-€100, while a specialist visit can range from €80-€150.

4. Can I get an online doctor consultation in Hungary?

Yes, TravelDoctor EU provides online medical consultations for travelers needing remote healthcare advice. Consultations start at €18, and reimbursement forms for insurance purposes are available upon request.

Final Tips for Travelers

• Get travel insurance that covers medical costs in Hungary.

• Save emergency contacts for quick access.

• Use Expat Medical for in-person visits and TravelDoctor EU for online consultations.

• Learn basic medical phrases in Hungarian or use a translation app.

By being prepared and knowing your healthcare options in Hungary, you can travel with peace of mind knowing that medical care is easily accessible should you need it.