Free Health Services for Tourists in Poreč

This summer, for the first time, additional healthcare teams have been provided in health centers for EU guests and domestic tourists. These services, contracted with the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO), allow tourists to receive medical care, prescriptions, and referrals covered by their health insurance at 36 locations.

Expanded Healthcare Access

So far, counties and health centers have staffed 36 teams out of the 51 locations contracted with HZZO. These teams are scheduled to operate until September 30.

Ten Teams in Five Clinics in Istria

In Istria, ten teams are available across five tourist clinics in Umag, Poreč, Rovinj, Pula, and Labin, serving the numerous tourists in the region until September 15. During the summer, the population in Istria doubles, with up to 400,000 people residing there daily.

The Istrian health centers note that tourists frequently seek medical assistance, often causing significant congestion at the emergency department of the Pula General Hospital.

“In the peak season, almost 600,000 tourists vacation in Istria, which places a significant burden on the healthcare system, affecting both the Istrian health centers and the Pula General Hospital,” said Dr. Nikola Žgrablić, Director of the Istrian Health Centers.

Local Support for Healthcare Services

Gordana Antić, Head of the Administrative Department for Health and Social Welfare of the Istrian County, emphasized that HZZO provides free check-ups but not salaries for doctors working with tourists. These salaries are funded locally, through the tourist tax.

She added that previously, tourist clinics charged for services, leading tourists to family medicine doctors where services were free. This issue has been better addressed, significantly easing the burden on family doctors and emergency services.

Poreč Clinic Details

Working Hours:

• Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Email: [email protected]

Source: Hina/Vlada

Visit Poreč for Hassle-Free Healthcare

With these enhancements in healthcare services, tourists in Poreč and other Istrian towns can enjoy their vacations with the assurance of accessible medical care. Plan your visit to Poreč and benefit from the free health services available, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay.