Traveling to a foreign country is always an adventure, but sometimes, health conditions can pop up unexpectedly. Whether it’s a minor problem or something more serious, knowing how to get medical help is important.
This article will guide you on how to see a doctor in Turkey as a foreigner. Whether you’re looking for an English-speaking general doctor or wondering how much it might cost, we’ve got you covered, including what to expect during your doctor’s appointment.
Key points:
- Seeing a doctor in Turkey as a foreigner doesn’t have to be hard. By using online services, local directories and asking for recommendations, you can get the care you need quickly.
- Whether you visit a doctor in person or have an online consultation with an English-speaking doctor, knowing your options will make everything easier.
- Services designed specifically for travelers like Doctorsa are of great help, so you can focus on enjoying your trip to Turkey without worrying about your health.
8 Successful Ways for Foreigners to Find a Doctor in Turkey
Here are some options for foreigners to find a doctor in Turkey.
Use an online doctor in Turkey
Find a doctor nearby using Google search
Use public health directories to find a general doctor
Ask for a family doctor to your hotel concierge or Airbnb host
Use Embassies list to find an English-speaking doctor
Ask to local expats group
Visit a walk-in doctor or urgent care facility
Visit an emergency room
Online doctors in Turkey
Online medical services like Doctorsa are convenient for quick access to a doctor who speaks English. Online doctors are available 24/7 and the cost is often lower than in-person visits.
You can easily book a medical appointment with a licensed English-speaking doctor, have a video consultation, and get prescriptions or medical advice without leaving your accommodation. That’s very convenient if, like me, you have no idea how to find an address in the city you are visiting!
This service is ideal for common travel conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), sore throats, rashes, food poisoning, and other typical bugs that threaten to ruin your trip.
Online doctors have become more popular, making it easier for foreigners to access healthcare without visiting a clinic.
Here is what you need to know about online doctors in Turkey:
Instant access and scheduling
With online doctors, you can consult 24/7 from anywhere. Visit a reputable online healthcare professional’s website or a platform like Doctorsa.com and book an appointment at a convenient time. This service is convenient and less stressful for non-urgent health conditions, compared to an in-person visit.
The easiest way to see a doctor in Turkey as a tourist is through Doctorsa’s online doctor service. In addition to the benefits of online visits you get:
- You get to choose your doctor and see their reviews from other travelers
- All doctors speak English, guaranteed
- Doctors are available anytime, even at night and during bank holidays
- Consultation fees start from about $20
- You have 7 days after your initial consultation to chat with your GP, so you can ask questions about your prescription and symptoms.
Consultation process for an online doctor
Booking a telehealth visit should be fairly easy and straightforward: you’ll choose your doctor, pay the consultation fees, and then meet with the doctor online, either via a secure link, or a common video call tool like zoom.
During the consultation, you will speak with a licensed and qualified doctor via video call. Some services, like insurance hotlines, usually provide a phone call or chat instead of a video call, which often is insufficient to reach a diagnosis and issue a prescription. If a video visit is available, choose that instead. Be prepared to discuss your symptoms and any health concerns you have.
If necessary, the online doctor can issue prescriptions you can use at local pharmacies and provide advice on any necessary follow-up care.
If you use a platform like Doctorsa you can be sure the doctors are licensed and vetted, while if you select a provider you’ve found on your own via internet, make sure to check their credentials.
Languages offered and privacy
Several online platforms offer services in multiple languages, including English, which is helpful for foreigners. If you are worried about sharing your information via web, consider that reputable online doctor services ensure patient privacy and adhere to strict security protocols to protect your personal and medical information.
How to get immediate care with an online doctor appointment
Immediate medical care and quick prescription is possible when booking an online doctor appointment. This can be done anytime through Doctorsa.
Here’s how you can book a consultation with an emergency doctor online:
- Step 1: Fill out a quick intake form. Select the type of appointment you want to book – urgent care, same-day appointment, or prescription refill. Choose whether you are booking the medical appointment for you, your child, or someone else.
- Step 2: Pick your doctor. Doctors will send appointment options. You can compare prices, see reviews, then choose what works best for you. Pay online with credit card or with your insurance.
- Step 3: Connect with your doctor. Video visits are available 24/7, just minutes after booking. Prescriptions will be sent to you via email. You can contact your doctor with follow-up questions for free within 7 days.
How do I find a primary care physician near me in Turkey using Google Search?
Finding a primary care physician (PCP) in Turkey doesn’t have to be challenging. Google is a reliable tool for finding local medical services. By searching terms like “general doctor near me” or “primary care doctor in [your location],” you can find nearby clinics and hospitals.
Google Maps often provides additional information, such as operating hours, patient reviews, and contact details. This helps you choose a doctor based on proximity and patient feedback.
However, it is advisable to call ahead to confirm availability and whether the doctor speaks English.
Here’s a step-by-step guide that can help you find a doctor near you using Google Search.
- Open Google: Start by opening Google on your web browser.
- Use relevant keywords: Type in keywords related to what you’re looking for, such as “primary care doctor near me” “general practitioner in Istanbul” or “private doctor in Ankara.” Including the city name narrows the search results.
- Review the results: Google will display a list of doctors along with their ratings, locations, and sometimes even reviews. Pay close attention to these details as they can help you assess the doctor’s professionalism and quality of care. Keep in mind that the first results are probably ads, so double check if they are reliable.
- Use Google Maps: Switch to Google Maps for a visual approach. It shows the exact locations of doctors’ offices relative to your current location, making it easier to find a physician nearby.
- Check out their websites: If available, visit the doctors’ websites for detailed information about their practices, languages spoken, specialties, and online booking options.
- Read reviews: Patient reviews can give you a rough idea of others’ experiences with the doctor, including bedside manner and clinic environment.
- Contact the doctor: Once you’ve identified a potential doctor, use the contact information provided in the search results to make an appointment. Don’t hesitate to ask if they’re experienced in treating foreigners or if they speak English, if necessary.
- Prepare your documents: Before your doctor’s appointment, ensure you have your ID and insurance details ready. Also, list any medications you take and your medical history. Note that the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) are not valid in Turkey.
Do doctors in Turkey speak English?
Many doctors in Turkey, especially in tourist areas and major cities, speak English. However, always confirm language skills when making an appointment to ensure effective communication. Larger hospitals and private clinics are more likely to have English-speaking staff, although that’s not guaranteed.
Services dedicated to tourists and expatriates are also more likely to have English-speaking staff and doctors.
Online booking platforms for travelers, such as Doctorsa, guarantee English fluency of all the providers listed on their site.
Public health directories to find a general doctor
Public health directories are comprehensive resources listing available doctors and healthcare facilities in various regions.
Turkey’s health authorities maintain directories listing licensed doctors. Websites like the Turkish Ministry of Health offer comprehensive information on healthcare professionals in various regions.
These directories provide detailed information about each healthcare professional, including their qualifications, areas of expertise, and contact details.
Common examples include:
- Ministry of health directory: The Turkish Ministry of Health maintains this directory, which lists licensed healthcare professionals across the country, including information on hospitals, clinics, and private doctors in cities like Ankara, Istanbul, and more.
- Family medicine information system (FMIS): The FMIS can help you find family doctors or GPs in various regions. It’s particularly beneficial for locating primary care doctors who provide comprehensive and continuous care.
Although these directories provide addresses and phone numbers, they don’t always indicate whether doctors speak English. Even on local online directories, language skills are self-declared and can be unreliable.
If the interface is primarily Turkish, a translation service can help navigate these resources.
Some sources, such as the U.S. Embassy in Turkey, provide a list of hospitals in Ankara with English-speaking staff, offering a more reliable option for finding a doctor who can communicate effectively with you.
If you’re looking for guarantees that the doctor will speak English, Doctorsa tests the language skills of all its healthcare providers. In addition, it features verified reviews from international patients on platforms like Trustpilot, ensuring international patients receive adequate care.
Ask for a family doctor to your hotel concierge or Airbnb host
Hotel concierges and Airbnb hosts are often well-connected and knowledgeable about local services, including healthcare. They can provide incredible assistance in finding a family doctor.
Here’s how you can use their help:
- Ask for recommendations: Upon arrival, ask your hotel concierge or Airbnb host if they know of any reliable family doctors or general practitioners in the area. They often have a list of trusted doctors who regularly treat tourists.
- Language considerations: Mention your need for an English-speaking doctor. Concierges and hosts are familiar with the common languages spoken by local doctors and can direct you accordingly.
- Proximity and convenience: They can recommend doctors or medical centers close to your accommodation, making it easier to access care without traveling far.
- Booking assistance: Some hotel concierges may even help you book an appointment or arrange a visit from a doctor to your hotel room if necessary.
Something to keep in mind though, is that kickbacks and affiliation agreements may influence some recommendations, leading to very expensive consultations and poor quality care.
To avoid this, ask your hotel for multiple options and compare costs instead of accepting just one doctor’s recommendation without knowing the fee beforehand.
Alternatively, with Doctorsa, you can access affordable online care directly in your hotel room and, in some areas, even request an in-person visit at your hotel. You’ll know the price in advance, ensuring there are no hidden charges, and you can check the doctor’s qualifications and reviews before booking.
How to find English-speaking doctors in Turkey
Finding an English-speaking doctor is important for effective communication and quality care. Some reliable methods may include using embassy lists or asking local expat groups.
Use Embassies list of doctors in Turkey
Embassies and consulates keep updated lists of English-speaking doctors who can assist foreigners. These lists include contact information for doctors in various specialties.
However, embassies do not assume responsibility for the professional ability or reputation of the listed doctors or medical centers.
While these lists are generally reliable, availability may be limited, especially for short-notice appointments.
Consider reaching out to your embassy for the latest list and any additional advice.
Ask to local expats group
Expat communities on Facebook, Reddit, and other online forums often have members who share their experiences and recommendations for local doctors.
Local expat groups can be a helpful resource for finding an English-speaking doctor in Turkey. These communities often have members who have gone through similar experiences and can offer firsthand recommendations and advice.
- Join expat groups online: Various local expat groups can help you connect with other foreigners.
- Search for recommendations: Use the search function within these groups to look for past discussions about English-speaking doctors. Keywords like “doctor,” “GP,” “English-speaking,” and the city name can help you find relevant posts quickly.
- Post your query: If you don’t find existing recommendations, create a post explaining your situation and asking for suggestions. Be specific about your location and medical needs to get the most accurate advice.
- Engage with members: When you receive responses, engage with the members who provide recommendations. Ask follow-up questions about their experiences, such as the doctor’s bedside manner, wait times, and the overall quality of care.
- Check reviews and contact information: Once you have a list of recommended doctors, look up their reviews on platforms like Google Maps or healthcare review sites to ensure they have positive feedback from other patients. Also, collect their contact information for easy access.
- Use expat resources: Some expat groups may have compiled lists or databases of recommended healthcare professionals. Check if the group you join has such resources pinned or in the files section.
- Ask about insurance compatibility: If you have travel insurance, inquire if the recommended doctors accept it. This can help you manage costs and avoid unexpected expenses.
- Arrange a visit: After selecting a doctor based on the recommendations and reviews, call their office to confirm their availability and language skills. Ensure they speak English fluently to avoid any communication barriers during your visit.
Though most of the times the advice is helpful and genuine, be cautious as some recommendations may be influenced by sponsorship. Also, expat needs may differ from yours as a traveler, especially regarding urgency and availability.
Therefore, while their advice helps find a general doctor for regular care, it may not be suitable for urgent care and same-day appointments.
As of today, Doctorsa stands out as the only service for travelers that thoroughly vets doctors through comprehensive clinical and personal interviews conducted in English.
This ensures that you receive high-quality care from doctors who are both professionally qualified and capable of effective communication.
Is urgent care a thing in Turkey?
In Turkey, urgent care centers are available in major cities and tourist areas. These facilities are equipped to handle a variety of medical concerns quickly and efficiently, often with shorter wait times than emergency care.
Urgent care centers in Turkey typically operate beyond regular office hours, including evenings and weekends, making them accessible for foreigners who may need medical assistance outside of standard clinic hours.
While many urgent care centers in Turkey offer services in Turkish, some, especially in tourist-heavy areas, have staff who can communicate in English. It’s advisable to confirm language capabilities when seeking urgent care.
Urgent care is a practical option for foreigners as it allows for walk-in appointments without prior scheduling. This can be particularly helpful for unexpected health conditions that arise during travel, such as food poisoning.
Costs at urgent care centers in Turkey can vary. While some services may be covered by travel insurance, travel insurance typically costs around 30-50 Euros for two weeks and covers medical expenses.
While travel insurance can help with serious medical issues requiring hospitalization, it can be more stressful and time-consuming for minor ailments. It often involves a deductible which is variable, but the lower the cost of the insurance, the higher the deductible.
For example, a low-cost plan might require paying €75 out-of-pocket for a UTI before coverage starts.
How does urgent care work in Turkey
Urgent care centers in Turkey operate similarly to those in other countries, handling non-urgent conditions like minor injuries and acute or chronic conditions.
These centers offer walk-in appointments, extended hours, and shorter wait times than hospitals. Many are located in major cities and tourist areas, with some having English-speaking staff to assist foreigners.
For urgent but non-emergency conditions, walk-in clinics are a good option. These facilities can accommodate quick consultations without prior appointments, making them ideal for tourists who require prompt care.
According to the American Academy of Urgent Care Medicine (AAUCM), urgent care centers are prepared to treat various medical conditions, including minor injuries, infections, and acute and chronic illnesses in outpatient settings.
They typically have shorter wait times than emergency rooms and can quickly provide medical attention outside regular office hours.
After hours doctors
After-hours doctors offer medical services outside regular clinic hours, providing care during evenings, nights, and weekends for urgent needs. This ensures you can receive timely medical attention even when most clinics are closed.
Doctorsa offers 24/7 access to a doctor any day of the week, including bank holidays, allowing you to get medical treatment at any time. This makes it useful for unexpected health conditions while traveling in Turkey.
How to get a prescription in Turkey
To get a prescription in Turkey, visit a local doctor or medical clinic for a consultation. The doctor will evaluate your symptoms and provide a prescription if needed.
You can also use online services like Doctorsa to consult with a licensed doctor who can issue a prescription. This prescription can then be filled at any pharmacy in Turkey.
Prescription refill
For a prescription refill, visit a local pharmacy or use online services. Some pharmacies can refill prescriptions from other countries if you have the original prescription or adequate documentation, however, this can vary depending on the type of medication as well.
Online prescription refill
Prescription refills are best handled online. However, restricted drugs such as opioids require an in-person visit. Doctors on Doctorsa can quickly provide prescription refills.
After a brief consultation, the doctor can send the prescription directly to you or a nearby pharmacy within minutes.
How to get antibiotics in Turkey
To get antibiotics in Turkey, you need a prescription from a licensed doctor. You can obtain this through an in-person visit to a medical clinic or hospital or use online consultation services like Doctorsa. Once you have the prescription, you can purchase the antibiotics at any pharmacy.
Can pharmacists prescribe antibiotics in Turkey?
No, pharmacists in Turkey cannot prescribe antibiotics. You must obtain a prescription from a licensed doctor to purchase antibiotics.
How much do antibiotics cost in Turkey?
Antibiotics in Turkey are generally affordable compared to many Western countries. However, prices can vary depending on the specific medication.
How to get an emergency prescription in Turkey?
For an emergency prescription, visit the nearest hospital or urgent care center. A doctor will evaluate your condition and provide the necessary prescription.
Alternatively, consider online care with Doctorsa, which can save time and ease pressure on emergency services.
Common scenarios
When traveling, you may encounter common medical problems that require quick attention. Knowing how to handle these situations can ensure you receive the care you need without disrupting your trip.
What to do if you have food poisoning in Turkey
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), food poisoning is a common problem for travelers with 30% to 70% of people getting sick during a 2-week trip, depending on their destination and the time of year.
A patient’s story
I was in Istanbul, feeling like a mess after what was clearly food poisoning. As a tourist, the idea of finding a hospital or even a walk-in clinic was daunting. I didn’t speak the language, and the thought of waiting hours to see an emergency doctor at a medical center made me even more anxious. Being a foreigner in a situation like this really puts you on edge.
It was early Sunday morning, around 8 AM, and I decided to try a video consultation with Doctorsa. I figured it might be quicker than trying to find a GP or urgent care in the city. To my surprise, several primary care doctors were available for a medical appointment, even at that hour. I chose a private doctor who was charging just $30 for the consultation.
The doctor turned out to be a GP who had previously worked in the UK. He spoke perfect English, which was a huge relief. He quickly assessed my symptoms and sent over a prescription within ten minutes. I picked up the medication from a nearby pharmacy, and within a couple of hours, I was already starting to feel better. The whole experience was so much smoother than I had expected, especially as a foreigner in a new city.
I’m running out of medication and I need a prescription refill
If you’re running low on medication, you can use online services for a quick prescription refill. However, some common medications are controlled in Turkey, and prescriptions from other countries, such as the UK, are not accepted in Turkish pharmacies.
In some cases, you can liaise with Turkish hospitals and your GP to arrange a Turkish prescription for a similar medicine. Always carry a copy of your original prescription and any relevant medical records to facilitate the process.
A patient’s story
I was in Istanbul and realized I was running out of my diabetes medication. I hadn’t packed enough, and panic set in. I checked the Embassy’s list of doctors and started making calls, but after several attempts, I only managed to speak with a secretary who told me the first available appointment was in two days. That wasn’t going to work.
Desperate, I found Doctorsa online and decided to give it a try. To my surprise, the process was incredibly smooth. I connected with a primary care doctor within 15 minutes, and he understood my situation immediately. He sent a prescription refill straight to a nearby pharmacy, and I had my meds within the hour. I couldn’t believe I had stressed so much about it. I’m just glad to have found such a reliable resource when I needed it most.
How do I get emergency medical help in Turkey?
For serious medical emergencies, visit an emergency room (ER). Turkish hospitals, especially in cities and tourist areas, have well-equipped ERs.
Public hospitals offer free emergency services for serious conditions if you are not registered with the Turkish authorities, though some fees may apply for less urgent cases.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for an ambulance or head directly to the nearest hospital. Be prepared for possible language barriers; having someone who speaks Turkish with you can help.
Alternatively, you can use translation apps like Google Translate or Apple’s Translate app to translate common words and phrases.
When traveling, encountering medical emergencies can be stressful. Knowing how to get emergency help in Turkey ensures you receive timely care for serious conditions.
What is an emergency
An emergency involves any condition or symptoms such as severe pain, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, or any injury posing an immediate risk to your health. In such cases, seek immediate medical attention.
What happens if I have a medical emergency in Turkey and I need to go to the hospital?
In case of a medical emergency in Turkey, here’s how to get the critical care you need:
- Call 112: The emergency number in Turkey is 112. It connects you to ambulance services, and they can direct you to the nearest emergency facility.
- Visit the nearest hospital: Go to the nearest hospital with an emergency department. Public hospitals offer emergency services, often free for serious conditions.
- Travel insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers emergency medical services. Keep insurance details readily available for quick access.
- Consular services: Contact your embassy or consulate for additional support and guidance in severe emergencies.
Is the ER free in Turkey?
Emergency care at public hospitals in Turkey is free, but non-emergency cases may incur fees. Private hospitals charge for all services, so clarify costs upfront. Dial 112 for 24/7 emergency health services at both public and private hospitals.
Seeing a doctor in Turkey
Seeing a doctor in Turkey as a foreigner can be straightforward with the correct information. Here’s what you need to know whether you choose an in-person or online visit.
What to expect during an in-person visit
During an in-person visit, bring your identification, relevant medical records, and a list of current medications. A doctor will discuss your symptoms, perform necessary tests, and provide a treatment plan. Payment methods vary, so check whether the healthcare facility accepts credit cards or cash only.
What to expect during an online visit
For an online visit, ensure you have a stable internet connection and a quiet environment. Discuss your symptoms with the doctor during the video call with a licensed doctor. They will offer medical advice and provide prescriptions if needed. Online visits save travel time and are convenient for common ailments.
How much does it cost to see a doctor in Turkey
The cost of seeing a doctor in Turkey varies based on the type of consultation and facility. In-person visits at private clinics can cost between €30 and €50, but the cost is much lower than what you would likely pay in the US or UK.
For convenience, telehealth services like Doctorsa offer competitive pricing for online consultations and prescriptions. Fees typically range from €15 to €30, depending on the healthcare provider.
Can tourists get free healthcare in Turkey?
Tourists can access free emergency care at public hospitals for serious conditions. However, healthcare is not free in private hospitals, and they may charge you to obtain treatment. It’s advisable to have travel insurance to cover possible medical expenses.
Doctor visit cost without insurance
Without insurance, the cost of seeing a doctor in Turkey can vary. Online consultations typically range from €15 to €30, while in-person visits at private hospitals can be more expensive at an average of €80 for a medical consultation with a GP. Always confirm the costs before your doctor’s visit.
Seeing a doctor as a tourist can be easier than you expect
Seeing a doctor in Turkey as a foreigner doesn’t have to be hard. By using online services, local directories and asking for recommendations, you can get the care you need quickly.
Whether you visit a doctor in person or have an online consultation, knowing your options will make everything easier.
Remember, services like Doctorsa are here to help, so you can focus on enjoying your trip to Turkey without worrying about your health.
