Global Health Insurance in Russia for Foreigners
Russia was once praised for having one of the finest healthcare systems in the world. That, however, has undergone significant changes since the end of the Soviet Union. Russia today has a healthcare system that ranges from very good to substandard, depending on the location. On average, it can best be described as offering a fair standard of care.
The 2025 Health Care Index ranks Russia’s system as the 57th best out of 89 countries, with a notably low score for the quality of its infrastructure. Facilities and standards are likely to be well below what foreigners are accustomed to. When it comes to health insurance in Russia, most expats are glad to have the public system as an option, but they almost always turn to private insurance for their own care.
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Overview of Russia’s Healthcare System
Russia’s constitution has provided citizens with the right to free healthcare since 1996. The state offers Russia’s healthcare through the Federal Compulsory Medical Insurance Fund.
The Ministry of Health regulates it. Russia’s public healthcare plan is often referred to as OMI, or obligatory medical insurance. It is funded through payroll contributions and employer contributions.
OMI covers the cost of inpatient care and all procedures that require an overnight stay at the hospital, as well as chronic conditions, maternal and newborn care, vaccinations, and other related services.
Benefits of Private Medical Insurance in Russia
It is not common for citizens to hold private or “voluntary” insurance from independent companies in Russia. The term “voluntary” is used to distinguish private insurance from public or “mandatory” state-sponsored insurance.
Only about 5% of the population takes out private insurance. However, this is higher in Moscow at about 20%. That said, while it isn’t common among the local population, a private medical plan is essential for foreigners.
Private medical facilities have modern medical equipment, shorter waiting times, and greater access to specialist care.
Unfortunately, they’re not always easy to find. Private facilities are most commonly associated with urban areas, as healthcare options in rural areas are often limited. If you live or spend a significant amount of time in remote areas, consider a policy that includes air evacuations as an option.
Most importantly, a private insurance plan means access to English-speaking staff. While some physicians in Russia speak English, this is far from a guarantee in public facilities.
Private health plans help patients avoid this difficult situation. Your insurance team ensures there’s a doctor you can communicate with when it matters most.
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Pros and Cons of Russia’s Healthcare System
There was a time when Russia’s healthcare system was among the best in the world. It had a reputation for being innovative and embracing cutting-edge science.
There are still some traces of this once-renowned system if you look carefully. For instance, there are about 9.3 hospital beds per 1,000 members of the population. This is nearly double the OECD average. However, Russia’s healthcare system has suffered considerably since the end of the Soviet Union.
Russia is struggling to return to the level of investment it once had. As such, access to specialists and modern diagnostic equipment can be a significant challenge, especially for those residing in rural areas.
Many hospitals are old and in dire need of updating. Russia’s financial crisis of 2014 exacerbated this situation, as hospital budgets were cut. In short, Russia’s hospitals are not places you want to be unless you really need treatment.
How Expats Can Qualify For Russian Health Insurance
Public health insurance is available to anyone who is legally living and working in Russia. However, it’s not enough to start your new job and hope for the best.
Foreigners are required to hold private medical insurance to obtain a Russian work visa before arrival.
As such, you are covered for any medical emergency in the time period between when you arrive in the country and when you start working,
For those who cannot contribute to OMI, including retirees who are not working, you can still access free public healthcare as part of a program that supports the unemployed, children, and individuals unable to work.
What You Need To Know About Processes
For expats employed by Russian companies, the process of signing up for Russian health insurance is relatively easy. Employers finance OMI through payroll contributions.
Your employer will pay between two and three percent of your salary into a social tax. A percentage of this tax is then paid into Russia’s national healthcare fund.
Once your employer pays this contribution, you are considered enrolled in the health system. As such, you have the right to free medical care from public clinics and hospitals.
How To Find A Family Physician
Compared to other countries, Russia has a relatively low number of general practitioners in relation to the number of specialist practitioners.
As such, finding a family physician can be a challenging task. Most new expats ask their friends, colleagues, and other expats for recommendations for a clinic in their neighborhood.
In Russia, there are virtually no private physician offices. Nearly all doctors see their patients in a clinic or a hospital environment.
How Routine Doctor Visits Work in Russia
Finding a general practitioner in Russia is essential. Your GP is the only person who can refer you to specialists or hospitals.
The process of finding a GP, arranging for a referral, and waiting for an appointment slot with that specialist can take months. Therefore, it’s essential to connect with your doctor long before you’re sick, if possible.
Your GP is also responsible for providing prescriptions for medication. Medication can only be obtained from a local pharmacy.
Patients will find a variety of stand-alone, independent pharmacies and larger chains, some of which operate out of supermarkets. In major cities like Moscow and St Petersburg, there are 24-hour pharmacies and those that offer delivery.
However, an estimated 70% of medication sold in Russia is either counterfeit or of low quality. Speak with your embassy and other expats for their trusted recommendations.
Public Health and Drinking Water
Access to safe drinking water is a concern throughout Russia. St Petersburg’s water system, in particular, is known for having problems with the parasite Giardia.
An estimated 56% of Moscow’s water supply fails to meet safety standards and is contaminated by pollution and heavy metals.
As a result, it’s common for hotels and other large properties to have their own water filtration system. However, when in doubt, it’s best to opt for bottled water over tap water.
Find the Best International Medical Insurance
- Compare multiple quotes from top insurers
- Get expert advice at no additional cost
- Find the right plan for your needs and budget
Joe Cronin, President of ICI, is a leading expert in international health, life, and travel insurance. An MBA and founder of multiple global businesses, he helps expatriates and travelers access trusted, comprehensive insurance solutions worldwide.
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