Medicine & Veterinary Hungary

State Medical Insurance

State medical insurance in Hungary is provided through the National Health Insurance Fund. It is funded by mandatory contributions from employers and employees, as well as government subsidies. This insurance ensures access to a wide range of medical services, including consultations with general practitioners and specialists; hospitalization; diagnostic examinations; treatment of chronic diseases; emergency medical care.

 

However, one should consider that there can be long waiting times for certain services in the public system, and there might be language barriers for foreign citizens.

 

Private Medical Insurance

Private medical insurance provides access to private clinics and medical centers, where waiting times are typically shorter and comfort level is higher. Benefits of private insurance include:

- Quick access to medical services;

- Choice of doctor and medical facility;

- Extended range of covered services, including dental and ophthalmology;

- Services in foreign languages, which is especially important for expats.

 

The cost of private insurance varies depending on the chosen plan and the insurance company. Some of the leading insurance companies in Hungary offering private medical insurance include: Aegon, Generali, Allianz, K&H, Union.

 

Many residents in Hungary combine both types of insurance, using state insurance for basic services and private insurance for more specialized or urgent medical care.

Public Health System

The public health system in Hungary is funded through the National Health Insurance Fund. All officially employed individuals automatically contribute to this fund and receive a TAJ number, which entitles them to free or subsidized medical services. Students and unemployed immigrants need to visit a local branch of the National Health Insurance Fund for registration.

 

Major Public Hospitals

Semmelweis University Clinic: a leading medical center in Budapest.

National Institute of Oncology: a specialized institution for cancer treatment.

Central Hospital of Southern Pest: a multi-profile hospital serving a wide range of medical needs.

 

Private Medical Facilities

Private clinics and hospitals offer an alternative to the public system, providing services with shorter waiting times and additional comfort.

 

Benefits of private services:

- Quick access to specialists without the need for referrals.

- Modern equipment and technologies.

- Multilingual staff, which is important for foreigners.

 

Renowned Private Clinics

"Robert Karoly" Medical Center: offers a wide range of medical services in Budapest.

"Medicover" Medical Network: an international network of clinics with branches in Hungary.

"Buda" Clinic: specialized services in orthopedics and rehabilitation.

List of private clinics: https://hungary.doklist.com/

 

Important Information for Immigrants

Insurance: It is mandatory to have valid medical insurance. Often, this is a requirement for obtaining a residence permit.

European Health Insurance Card: EU citizens can use EHIC to receive emergency medical aid.

Language Barrier: While staff in private clinics often speak English, knowledge of Hungarian may be necessary in public institutions. It is recommended to have an interpreter or use translation apps.

Registration with a Family Doctor

A family doctor is the first point of contact in the healthcare system in Hungary, providing primary care and referring patients to specialists if necessary.

Choosing a Doctor: You have the right to choose any family doctor working in your area of residence. Lists of doctors are available at local municipalities or on their official websites.

Visiting a doctor: After choosing a doctor, visit their office during working hours. Bring identification and, if available, your social security card (TAJ card).

Registration confirmation: After your data is processed, you officially become a patient of the chosen family doctor.

Notes

Changing a doctor: You can change your family doctor, but no more than once a year.

Foreign citizens: If you do not have a TAJ card, ask your doctor about the possibility of paid services or the terms of obtaining medical insurance.

 

Booking an appointment with a specialist

Through a family doctor: After a consultation, the family doctor, if necessary, will issue a referral to a specialist and provide information about booking an appointment.

Direct booking: In some clinics, it is possible to book directly with specialists without a referral, but in such cases, the services may be paid.

Online appointment booking

The Hungarian healthcare system is gradually implementing online services for appointment bookings.

Through clinic websites: Many medical institutions offer online forms for booking appointments. Visit the official website of the chosen clinic and follow the instructions.

Through mobile applications: Some private clinics and networks of medical centers provide mobile applications for convenient appointment booking.

Notes

Language barrier: Online services may only be available in Hungarian. If necessary, use online translators or seek help from acquaintances.

Appointment confirmation: After booking online, you will receive confirmation via email or phone.

Useful resources

National Health Service of Hungary: The official website https://www.neak.gov.hu/ provides information on medical services and patient rights.

Local municipalities: Municipality websites contain lists of family doctors and information about medical facilities in your area.

Emergency numbers and calling an ambulance

Unified emergency number: Hungary has a unified number for calling all emergency services — 112. This number can be used to call the police, fire service, and emergency medical assistance. Operators speak Hungarian, English, and German.

Direct ambulance number: There is also a direct number for calling an ambulance — 104. However, it is recommended to use the number 112 for faster and more coordinated response.

 

Availability of emergency assistance to foreigners: According to Hungarian law, emergency medical assistance is provided to all persons in the country, regardless of citizenship and the presence of health insurance.

 

Emergency departments: In major cities and localities in Hungary, emergency departments operate in hospitals, providing round-the-clock assistance for acute conditions, injuries, and other urgent medical situations.

 

Transport to medical institutions: Depending on the severity of the patient's condition, the ambulance may take them to the nearest medical facility capable of providing the necessary assistance.

 

Language barrier and communication: Although emergency service staff are trained in basic English, it is recommended to carry a card with basic medical phrases in Hungarian or use mobile applications for translation.

 

Cost of emergency services: Emergency medical assistance in urgent cases is provided free of charge. However, subsequent treatment or hospitalization may require payment, especially if the patient does not have valid health insurance. It is recommended to clarify payment details and possible expenses directly in the medical facility.

 

Useful contacts and resources

National Ambulance Service of Hungary: (https://www.mentok.hu/)

In Hungary, access to medical tests and examinations is organized through state and private medical institutions.

A family doctor refers the patient for necessary tests and examinations in state laboratories and diagnostic centers. Private clinics and laboratories offer a wide range of diagnostic services without the need for a referral from a family doctor.

In Hungary, comprehensive body examination programs, known as Check-up, are popular. They include various diagnostic procedures aimed at early detection of diseases. Such programs are available in large private clinics equipped with modern equipment.

In Hungary, there are numerous laboratories and medical centers that provide a wide range of diagnostic services. Below are some of the most popular institutions where you can get tested and undergo examinations:

Medicover — one of the leading private medical networks in Hungary; offers comprehensive diagnostic services, including laboratory tests, imaging studies, and specialist consultations.

SYNLAB — an international laboratory network; provides a wide range of laboratory tests, including general clinical, biochemical, immunological, and genetic tests.

Neumann Labs specializes in molecular biological research.

Duna Medical Center — a modern medical center in Budapest; offers a wide range of diagnostic and treatment services.

WhiteLab — a private laboratory that offers antibody tests and other laboratory studies.

Margit Lab — a laboratory offering a wide range of tests, including general clinical and specialized studies.

Before visiting a laboratory, it is recommended to check their official website or contact them by phone to clarify details and, if necessary, make an appointment.

Choosing a doctor

Selecting an obstetrician-gynecologist is an important step in preparing for childbirth. You can:

- Visit a state clinic at your place of residence.

- Choose a private doctor, which can offer a more individual approach and flexibility in scheduling.

 

Choosing a hospital

 

State hospitals

If you are insured under the mandatory state health insurance system, you are entitled to free childbirth in state hospitals. Popular maternity wards in Budapest and other cities: Semmelweis University Clinic, Saint Istvan Hospital, Central Hospital of Southern Pest.

 

Private clinics

Private maternity homes offer more comfortable conditions and personalized care: Róbert Károly Magánkórház, Maternity Private Clinic.

 

Hospital admission: Pre-registration is required. This is usually done through your doctor.

 

Pregnancy registration: Visit the local Mother and Child Center to register.

 

After childbirth

Child registration: Within 30 days after birth, the child must be registered with the Civil Registry Office.

 

Newborn vaccination

In Hungary, newborn vaccination is mandatory and regulated by national law. The national immunization program mandates required vaccinations for children at certain age periods to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and protect public health. Mandatory vaccinations for newborns: BCG (tuberculosis vaccine); Hepatitis B.

Parental responsibility: Failure to meet vaccination obligations can lead to legal consequences, including administrative fines.

Medical exemptions: If there are contraindications, vaccination may be postponed or canceled by a doctor's decision.

 

Information for immigrants

Providing previous medical records: If your child was born outside of Hungary or received vaccinations in another country, it is recommended to provide the pediatrician with all medical records translated into Hungarian.

Synchronization of the vaccination schedule: A Hungarian pediatrician will help adapt the national vaccination schedule considering previously received vaccines.

 

 

Possible consequences of refusing vaccination

Educational institutions: Kindergartens and schools may require vaccination confirmation upon admission.

Legal measures: Health authorities have the right to take action against parents who refuse mandatory vaccination without medical grounds.

The death of a loved one in a foreign country is a difficult and emotionally challenging event. In this situation, it is important to know what steps to take to comply with all legal and administrative procedures in Hungary.

 

Immediate actions

If the death was sudden or under unclear circumstances:

- Immediately call the emergency number 112. This is the single European number for emergency medical and police services. Do not touch or move the body until authorities arrive.

 

If the death occurred in a medical facility:

- The hospital staff will handle the necessary procedures and notify the appropriate authorities.

 

Notifying authorities: police and medical services

- A doctor must officially confirm the death and issue a medical death certificate.

- If death occurred at home, a doctor or emergency services should be called to conduct an inspection.

- In case of an unexpected death or suspicious circumstances, the police will conduct an investigation.

- An autopsy may be required by the authorities.

 

Contacting the embassy or consulate

Notifying your country's embassy or consulate: Contact the embassy or consulate to report the incident. Diplomatic representatives will help coordinate actions, provide necessary information and support. Consular assistance:

- Assistance in communicating with local authorities and medical institutions.

- Consultation on body repatriation or funeral arrangements in Hungary.

 

Obtaining an official death certificate

 

Death registration:

The death must be registered at the local civil registry office within 8 days of the date of death.

Required documents:

- Medical death certificate.

- The deceased's passport.

- Your ID and proof of relationship (if applicable).

 

Death certificate: After registration, a death certificate is issued. It is advisable to request several certified copies for use in various institutions.

 

Repatriation of the body or burial in Hungary

Repatriation of the body: Choose a licensed funeral agency with experience in international repatriation. The agency will assist with the necessary paperwork, including the permit to transport the body.

 

Necessary documents for repatriation:

- Death certificate.

- Permission from local sanitary authorities.

- Certificate of no infectious diseases.

- The deceased's passport.

 

Transportation: The body must be prepared according to international requirements, including the use of a special hermetically sealed coffin.

 

Funeral or cremation in Hungary

Choosing a funeral agency: The agency will help organize the funeral or cremation in accordance with your religious and cultural traditions.

 

Financial and legal issues

Insurance: Check if the insurance policy covers repatriation or funeral expenses.

 

Property issues: Consult with a lawyer specializing in international inheritance law. It may be necessary to open an inheritance case in Hungary.

 

Bank accounts and contracts: Notify banks, employers, and other relevant organizations of the death.

 

Informing family and close ones: If you are not the nearest relative, try to notify the deceased's family as soon as possible.

 

 

Useful contacts

 

Embassies and consulates: List of diplomatic missions in Hungary (https://konzuliszolgalat.kormany.hu/en )

 

Local authorities:

Police: Phone 107 or general emergency number 112.

Ambulance: 104 or 112.

 

Additional information

Consultations: Seek advice from law firms specializing in international law. Social services can provide additional support and information.

Microchipping

All dogs over four months old must be identified with a microchip that meets ISO 11784 or 11785 standards. The procedure is conducted by a licensed veterinarian, and the animal's data is entered into a national database.

Cats and other pets are not required to be microchipped, but it is recommended for their safety.

Vaccination against Rabies

Dogs older than three months must be vaccinated against rabies. Vaccination is conducted annually, and information about it is recorded in the animal's veterinary passport.

Veterinary Passport

An international veterinary passport is necessary for traveling with an animal within the EU. It contains information about vaccinations, parasite treatments, and the overall health condition of the pet. The veterinary passport is issued by a licensed veterinarian.

Additional Vaccinations and Treatments

Although not all vaccinations are mandatory, veterinarians recommend vaccination against the following diseases:

Dogs: canine distemper, parvovirus enteritis, leptospirosis, infectious hepatitis.

Cats: panleukopenia, viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus infection.

Regular treatment against internal and external parasites is also recommended.

Traveling with Animals

When exporting an animal from Hungary or importing into the country, it is necessary to comply with the requirements of the destination country, which may include additional vaccinations, tests, and documents. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with these requirements in advance and prepare all necessary documents.

Hungary has a well-developed infrastructure for pet owners, including pet-friendly hotels as well as shelters for homeless animals.

Pet-Friendly Hotels

Many hotels in Hungary welcome guests with pets, offering special conditions for comfortable cohabitation. According to Booking.com, in major cities such as Budapest, Tapolca, and others, a wide selection of such hotels can be found.

When planning a trip with your pet, it is recommended to contact the chosen hotel in advance to clarify rules and possible additional fees.

Pet Hotels

Hungary has a developed network of pet hotels providing temporary accommodation for pets, such as dogs and cats. These establishments offer various services, including feeding, walking, care, and medical supervision, ensuring the comfort and safety of pets during the absence of their owners.

Examples of pet hotels in Hungary:

Pet Hotel URALTOBET in the city of Lajosmizse: Offers spacious enclosures with video surveillance, isolated kennels with heating and lighting, as well as a large play area for dogs.

When planning to place a pet in a pet hotel, it is recommended to book a spot in advance, especially during holidays and vacations when the demand for such services increases.

Animal Shelters

There are many shelters in Hungary engaged in rescuing and caring for homeless animals. These organizations provide temporary shelter for dogs, cats, and other animals, and also facilitate their subsequent adoption.

The Bottyan Equus Hungaria Charity Foundation: This shelter specializes in rescuing old and sick horses that have been subjected to abuse. Additionally, cats, dogs, and other domestic animals find refuge here.

The "Mályi" Bird Shelter: The organization is engaged in rescuing injured birds in the city of Mályi and surrounding areas, providing them with the necessary assistance and rehabilitation.

Many shelters actively cooperate with volunteers and accept donations to support their activities. If you are interested in helping or adopting an animal, it is recommended to contact the shelters directly for detailed information.

Hungary is a country with a respectful attitude towards animals. There are strict animal protection laws and high standards of veterinary care. Pet owners are required to comply with certain rules regarding registration, vaccination, and handling of their pets.

Legal Requirements for Animal Handling

Registration and Identification: mandatory microchipping for dogs; cats and other pets are not required to be microchipped.

Vaccination: mandatory rabies vaccination for dogs.

Obtaining a veterinary passport.

 

Restrictions on Breeds and Species

Prohibited breeds: There is no official list of prohibited dog breeds in Hungary, however, some breeds are considered potentially dangerous, and their owners are required to follow additional precautions, such as using muzzles and short leashes in public places.

Exotic Animals: The keeping of exotic and wild animals is regulated by separate laws; special permits are required to keep such animals.

Rules for Walking and Public Places

Leash and Muzzle:

- Dogs must be on a leash in public places.

- The use of a muzzle is mandatory on public transport and in some public places, especially for large and potentially dangerous breeds.

Restricted Areas

- Some parks and public places may have restrictions on staying with animals.

- Pay attention to signs saying "Kutyával belépni tilos" (No dogs allowed).

Dog Walking Areas: In large cities like Budapest, there are special dog walking areas where pets can run off-leash.

 

Traveling with Animals

Within the Country: Pets are allowed on trains and buses if transportation rules are followed, including the use of a muzzle and leash. You may need to purchase a ticket for the animal.

Traveling Abroad: A veterinary passport with current vaccinations is required. In some cases, an additional examination or parasite treatment is necessary.

 

Housing and Pets

Rental Housing: Many landlords allow pets, but restrictions may apply; it is recommended to discuss this issue in advance and include the appropriate agreement in the rental contract if necessary.

Apartment Buildings: Some residential complexes may have internal rules regarding pet ownership.

Noise and Disturbance to Neighbors: Owners must control their pets' behavior to avoid disturbing public order and neighbors' peace.

Veterinary Services: Hungary offers a wide range of veterinary clinics, many of which provide services in English; service costs can vary, and pet insurance is recommended. In major cities, 24-hour veterinary clinics are available.

Owner Responsibilities

In Hungary, animal cruelty is considered a serious offense and carries strict penalties. Such actions can be classified as a criminal offense, which implies the following responsibilities:

- Imprisonment: Depending on the severity of the act, the perpetrator may face imprisonment for up to two years.

- Fines: Instead of or in addition to imprisonment, a significant monetary fine may be imposed by the court.

- Community Service: In some cases, mandatory community service may be assigned.

For more detailed information, it is recommended to consult official sources or consult with a lawyer specializing in animal protection in Hungary.

Helpful Tips for Immigrants

Many veterinarians and pet store staff speak English; it is advisable to learn basic phrases in Hungarian to facilitate communication.

Consider obtaining an insurance policy to cover veterinary expenses.