How does the healthcare system work in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

What is the quality of healthcare in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

• The healthcare system in Bosnia and Herzegovina is still developing. Basic care is available, but the quality and accessibility of care varies greatly from region to region because the system is very fragmented. A good sign is that life expectancy in the country is increasing. A less good sign is that medical education is not yet very good. Therefore, there are still many humanitarian organizations active in the field of medical aid.
• Healthcare in Bosnia and Herzegovina is divided between the two entities of the country: the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republika Srpska. These entities have their own healthcare systems, which operate independently of each other. This makes it very difficult for the country to adopt a good, overall public system.
• English is not always spoken, especially in the public system. It may be wise to consider an interpreter or an English-speaking private doctor!
• Outside of Sarajevo, it can be difficult to find good medical care.
• Pharmacies are easy to find and many medicines are available without a prescription. Make sure you bring specific medication, as some medicines can be difficult to find.
• Health insurance is mandatory for everyone in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Most of the costs for medical care come from the health insurance companies and the financial share that the government contributes is small.
• The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is not valid in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

How does the public healthcare system work in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

• The public healthcare system is very fragmented with 13 health insurance companies and 14 health authorities spread across the country. Due to this fragmentation, the quality of care varies greatly from region to region.
• Public healthcare is accessible to residents who contribute to the social security system. This also applies to expats with a work permit.
• Although basic care is adequate, facilities in rural areas are often outdated and less well equipped. There are also no standardised qualifications for nurses, a limited number of hospital beds and little funding. In the public system, one can go to polyclinics, health centers, clinics (ambulantas) and hospitals.
• Waiting times for specialist treatments can be long, and advanced technologies or medicines are sometimes not available.

How does the private healthcare system work in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

• Expats often choose private clinics because of the better quality, faster access and English-speaking doctors. However, it is difficult to find private clinics outside Sarajevo.
• Private healthcare is affordable compared to Western European standards, but of course these can increase, especially for more complex treatments.
• For specific medical care or surgical procedures, some foreigners living in Bosnia and Herzegovina go to neighboring countries such as Croatia or Serbia.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

• In the public healthcare system, general practitioners are generally assigned. Patients often have to visit a general practitioner first before being referred to a specialist. These general practitioners can be found at local clinics called ambulantas.
• Private clinics offer direct access to a general practitioner, often with shorter waiting times.

How is the dentist arranged in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

• Dental care is not fully covered by public insurance and is limited in terms of services.
• Many residents and expats opt for private dentists. The costs are relatively low, while the quality is reasonably good.
• Cosmetic dentistry, such as implants and crowns, is widely offered and sometimes even attracts medical tourists due to the low costs.

How is pregnancy care arranged in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

• Pregnant women have access to prenatal check-ups through the public system, but the quality can vary. Private care often offers more modern facilities and a more personal approach.
• Most deliveries take place in public hospitals. Although these are adequate, most expats opt for private clinics because of better conditions and personal attention.
• Abortion is legal and can be performed up to 10 weeks of pregnancy at the request of the pregnant person. After 10 weeks, it is only possible for medical reasons. Finding an abortion clinic can be difficult.
• Bosnia and Herzegovina is a conservative country, and attitudes toward abortion can vary greatly depending on the region and the religious or cultural background of the community. This can create social pressure or stigma for women considering abortion, and you may also be refused by a doctor.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

• Pickpocketing and theft are common in busy tourist areas, but you don’t need to worry about more serious crime. It is relatively safe.
• In urban areas such as Sarajevo and Banja Luka, it is wise to secure your home against burglary, especially if you live in a remote area.
• Corruption is still prevalent, which can also affect emigrants, especially in administrative procedures.
• Heavy rainfall can lead to flooding in certain areas, especially in spring.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

• The health risks in Bosnia and Herzegovina are relatively low, but there are some points of attention for long-term residents.
• Diseases such as hepatitis A and typhoid can occur, especially in cases of poor hygiene or contaminated water in remote areas.
• Tap water is of reasonable quality, especially in the larger cities. In other locations, it may be wise to drink from bottles.
• Bosnia and Herzegovina, and mainly Sarajevo, also experiences severe smog from time to time. The air quality in the country isn’t that great, which could lead to respiratory problems. 

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

• Traffic can be challenging, especially for expats who are not used to the road conditions.
• Local drivers can drive recklessly, such as speeding or overtaking in dangerous places. Although strict alcohol laws apply, drunk driving is still common.
• In cities, roads are generally well maintained, but in rural areas, roads can be poorly lit, narrow, or damaged. Be prepared for narrow and steep mountain roads, which can be especially dangerous in winter conditions.
• Signposts can be unclear, especially in remote areas. Use a GPS or local apps for navigation.
• Public transport is affordable but can be unreliable, especially in remote areas. Buses are the most common form of public transport, but quality varies.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

• Is the trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Bosnia and Herzegovina if you are going to live there for a while?

• Even if you are covered by the public system, it can be not so smart not to take your own insurance, so given the state of local healthcare. If something were to happen, you would be covered for better healthcare in a neighbouring country, for example, or medical repatriation.
• In Bosnia and Herzegovina make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.