Many immigrants prefer to live in European countries, influenced not only by the quality of education and living conditions in these countries but also by the robust healthcare systems, high-quality medical conditions, and benefits that are a significant attraction. The healthcare systems in countries such as Greece, Spain, Portugal, and Cyprus rank among the best in the world.
1. Greece: Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage
Greece strongly supports healthcare, with a comprehensive medical security system that provides free medical coverage throughout the country. Government spending on healthcare accounts for approximately 10.1% of GNP, significantly higher than in other developed countries. A mixed healthcare system composed of private health insurance institutions and the national healthcare system ensures that all Greek residents, regardless of their profession or regional differences, can enjoy free medical services. Additionally, non-EU citizens from EU or other agreement countries, as well as foreigners or expatriates who pay taxes to the Greek government, can also access healthcare services.
2. Portugal: Doctor-to-Population Ratio of 1:256
Portugal ranks 12th globally in healthcare systems, with excellent social medical benefits, and leads the world in areas such as organ transplantation. The Portuguese government places great importance on healthcare, with a doctor-to-population ratio of 1:256. After immigrating to Portugal, individuals in need can visit public hospitals and health centers for free medical services. Furthermore, family doctors at health centers conduct regular health check-ups for each household.
3. Spain: Free Treatment in Public Hospitals with a Card
Spain implements a universal free public healthcare system, where individuals only need to pay social security contributions and apply for a health card to receive free medical care in public hospitals. Spouses and children of cardholders who are unemployed can also enjoy free medical services. If conditions permit, purchasing private insurance provides additional security, with monthly payments starting from 50 euros, covering all free medical services, including emergency care and serious illnesses. Spain is one of the countries with the best public health systems globally, benefiting from high standards of medical practices and advanced equipment. Additionally, Spain has a well-established healthcare network, with health centers and hospitals densely distributed, making access to primary diagnosis and specialized care very convenient.
4. Cyprus: One General Practitioner for Every 480 People
Cyprus has a sound medical security system that reaches above-average European levels and is recognized by the World Health Organization as meeting the standards of developed countries. In Cyprus, there is one general practitioner for every 480 people, all of whom have over two years of experience working in countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States. The medical costs in public hospitals in Cyprus are very low, and many services are even free.
5. Malta: A Strong Healthcare System Leading Global Rankings
Although Malta is a small country, it has excellent technology, ranking 5th globally in healthcare systems. Malta, despite being a small island nation, is home to one of the largest medical facilities in Europe—Mater Dei Hospital. Public health care in Malta is provided free of charge to the people through government taxation. In the public health system, pharmaceuticals are separate, reasonably priced, and provided free of charge to recognized low-income groups and pregnant women.
6. Ireland: Free Public Health System
In Ireland, the vast majority of treatments are conducted by family doctors. With a medical card or a family doctor access card, patients can enjoy free family doctor services. If a family doctor believes that a patient needs to visit a hospital, the patient can use this medical card or GP access card to receive free treatment in public hospitals. Holders of medical cards or family doctor access cards can also enjoy free community services, dental services, prescription drug cost coverage, hospital care, and a range of other benefits.