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Feeling off in Serbia? Popping into a local pharmacy or seeing a doctor might seem like a hassle. Naturally, that goes double if you don’t speak the language. But worry not! With our handy guide, you’ll learn all you need to know about the Serbian healthcare system and pharmacies.
We’ll walk you through public and private hospitals, teach you how to handle prescriptions, and much more. So next time you get a fever or need a check-up, it’ll be a walk in the park — or, as Serbs say, mačji kašalj (a cat’s cough).
As you may know, many Serbian people resort to home remedies when they feel a bit off. So, herbal teas, chicken soups, and even rakija are all weapons in fighting the common cold and other infections. But when push comes to shove, even Serbs need a doctor or at least OTC meds.
Luckily, healthcare in Serbia is available to everyone, including international residents.
Serbia boasts universal healthcare that covers all citizens through national health insurance. In return, all employed adults must pay into the national health fund — no way out.
But what does that mean for you?
As long as you live and work in Serbia as a permanent resident, your employer will handle your health insurance. On the other hand, entrepreneurs need to do it themselves. In any case, you’ll get to use all the benefits of the public healthcare system in Serbia, just like everyone else.
In short, you’ll be able to see a doctor, take prescriptions, have surgeries, and medical check-ups — the whole shebang. Plus, any dependents, like children or an unemployed spouse, will be insured through you. Neat, right?
Nothing is perfect, though. So, spending what seems like an eternity in the waiting room (čekaonica) isn’t the only downside. You may also be seen by a grumpy doctor whose main goal is getting rid of you as fast as possible.
Or, if you need inpatient care, your stay can be a bit depressing — think moldy walls and food that’s far from Hilton standards.
So, no wonder many people opt for funky homemade concoctions smelling like onions and tasting like hell. Thanks, Grandma!
Jokes aside, some hospitals are better than others — and the same goes for medical workers.
If you don’t mind coughing up the cash (pun intended), or you’re lucky enough to have an employer who covers private health insurance, you’ll enjoy a far more comfortable experience.
That means scheduling appointments with no hassle and almost no waiting time. Plus, the doctors in private clinics tend to be more smiley and caring.
But it’s not just about convenience. If you’re in Serbia temporarily, health insurance is a must when registering for your stay.
Luckily, plenty of providers offer flexible packages at different price points. For instance, some of the popular options are Generali and Dunav Osiguranje.
Are you entitled to emergency care while in Serbia? Absolutely! That said, rules about how this works vary depending on which country you’re from — some countries have special agreements with Serbia. Check all the details here.
In any case, you can dial 112 — the universal emergency number. Or you can get the ambulance by calling 194. Either way, make sure you have your insurance certificate with you. If you don’t have one, though, you may be asked to cover the emergency service costs.
You’ll spot Serbian pharmacies by the glowing green cross — hard to miss, especially at night.
Called apoteka in Serbian, they can be public or private, but both stock over-the-counter (OTC) meds (lekovi bez recepta) and prescription drugs (lekovi na recept).
Need something for a headache or indigestion? Just ask the pharmacist — but be ready to pay full price for OTC meds.
If you have a prescription covered by insurance, on the other hand, you’ll only pay a portion of the price.
As you’d expect, stronger meds like antibiotics or tranquilizers require a prescription — so make sure to see a doctor first.
In Serbia, your first stop for any health issue is a general practitioner (GP). They’ll handle routine care and give you a referral if you need a specialist.
You can book an appointment by calling or visiting their office — just be prepared for longer wait times in the public system.
Private clinics are more flexible. You can usually book directly with a specialist, no referral needed — though it’ll cost more.
Either way, a little Serbian goes a long way. Luckily, we’ve got a whole article on how to book appointments, explain your symptoms, and more. Check it out here.
Mandatory health insurance in Serbia takes 10.3% of your salary each month, usually through your employer. It covers most care, though you’ll still pay small copays for certain procedures or therapies.
Meanwhile, private clinics can set you back around $30–60 for a GP visit and $50–100 for a specialist. But if you have private insurance, some or all of that may be covered, depending on your plan. Basic coverage can start as low as $15 a month.
All things considered, healthcare in Serbia is pretty affordable — especially compared to most Western countries.
You can visit a dentist (zubar) at a public clinic, but most people go private — it’s faster, easier, and still won’t drain your wallet.
A simple cavity will set you back around $40, while more complex procedures cost more but remain affordable by international standards.
Wait times? Minimal. You might even score a same-day appointment.
No wonder many Serbians who work abroad (gastarbajteri) only see a dentist when they return home for holidays. With prices and perks like these, who could blame them?
See? Getting medical help in Serbia isn’t so scary — unless you’re terrified of needles. Now that you understand how the Serbian healthcare system works, you’ll feel at ease visiting a clinic or pharmacy whenever needed.
Of course, speaking the language helps — big time! Want to learn more? Our Pre-Intermediate course covers doctor visits, among many other topics. Get it now so that next time you’re under the weather, you’ll be ready to go!
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