What is healthcare in Turkey like?

Facilities and Health Information

The care provided in Turkish hospitals varies greatly. New private hospitals in Ankara, Antalya, Izmir, and Istanbul have modern facilities and equipment, numerous U.S.-trained specialists, and international accreditation. However, some still may be unable to treat certain serious conditions. While the State Department prefers medical evacuation for its personnel who will be giving birth, there are private hospitals in Ankara and Istanbul that meet Western standards of obstetric care. Pregnant women should consult the Turkish Airlines website for more detailed and updated information regarding travel restrictions.

Those planning prolonged stays in Turkey should bring or secure a supply of necessary medications (e.g., heart medications, birth control pills). Certain medications are difficult to obtain in Turkey. Nursing care and diagnostic testing (including mammograms) meet U.S. standards at specific institutions in the larger cities. Unlike in Ankara, Istanbul, Izmir, and Adana, health care standards are lower in small cities in Turkey.

You should drink only bottled water or water that has been filtered and boiled. Bottled beverages are safe to drink. Most local dairy products, including milk, yogurt, and cheese, are safe to consume. Take care when buying perishable products to be sure vendors use adequate refrigeration. Wash vegetables and fruits carefully and cook meat thoroughly before eating it.

H1N1 and Other Influenza: The U.S. Government remains concerned about the possibility of a severe influenza pandemic resulting from changes in the 2009-H1N1 virus or the emergence of a newer influenza virus that may affect U.S. citizens abroad. Both H1N1 and H5N1 (avian influenza), have been reported in Turkey. Avoid poultry farms and contact with animals in live food markets. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has developed plans for individuals and groups to protect themselves against infection during a pandemic. They include simple techniques such as washing your hands, practicing cough etiquette, staying home when you or family members are sick, limiting contact with others, and avoiding public gathering places.

Drinking Water Source - % of rural population improved

98.8%

Drinking Water Source - % of total population unimproved

0.3%

Drinking Water Source - % of urban population improved

improved: urban: 99.1% of population

rural: 98.7% of population

total: 99% of population

unimproved: urban: 0.9% of population

rural: 1.3% of population

total: 1% of population

HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate

0.07%

Hospital Bed Density - beds/1,000 population

2.9

People Living with HIV/AIDS

4,600

Physicians Density - physicians/1,000 population

1.93

Sanitation Facility Access - % of total population unimproved

8.8%

Sanitation Facility Access - % of urban population improved

improved: urban: 99.8% of population

rural: 98.7% of population

total: 99.6% of population

unimproved: urban: 0.2% of population

rural: 1.3% of population

total: 0.4% of population

Sanitation Facility Access - % of rural population improved

75.5%

Disability Access In Turkey

Accessibility

Individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different in Turkey from what you find in the United States. The Turkish constitution prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in the provision of state services, employment, education, and access to health care, and the government generally enforces the law effectively. However, the law does not mandate access to buildings and public transportation for persons with disabilities, and access in most cities is quite limited.

Persons with disabilities generally find that Turkish airports and metro stations are easily accessible, but other public transportation, such as buses or taxis are not. There are reserved seats for disabled, pregnant, or elderly people in public buses, but neither the roads nor the buses are designed for easy access for the disabled. In a few big cities, some traffic lights have sound systems for the visually impaired, but these are uncommon. The pedestrian crossing rules and their enforcement are different than in the United States. Cars rarely stop when they see a pedestrian, and may not stop when the traffic light is red or at a pedestrian crosswalk. Sidewalks and footpaths are at times high and uneven. Overpasses and underpasses are generally not designed for the disabled. Roads and footpaths are frequently under construction and may contain extensive obstructions. In addition, vehicles may park on footpaths or otherwise obstruct access to footpaths. While some accessible hotels and restaurants exist in tourist destinations, in general, accessibility for people with disabilities in Turkey is poor.

Disclaimer

You are responsible for ensuring that you meet and comply with foreign entry requirements, health requirements and that you possess the appropriate travel documents. Information provided is subject to change without notice. One should confirm content prior to traveling from other reliable sources. Information published on this website may contain errors. You travel at your own risk and no warranties or guarantees are provided by us.

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