| Public | Private |
|---|---|
| Guarantees treatment within 90 days of initial visit. | Usually retain the same doctor throughout your treatment. |
| Fees capped at an annual rate. | Quicker access than public care. |
Sweden
International Health Insurance in Sweden
Sweden is renowned for its beauty and charm. It’s also highly acclaimed for its standard of living. Set yourself up for success by safeguarding your health in Scandinavia with Sweden health insurance packages.
The work-life balance here is greatly valued, and Sweden’s public healthcare system is widely considered among the world’s best. The World Health Organization agrees – ranking the country 23rd out of 191 for healthcare proficiency.
Private health insurance in Sweden unlocks quick and easy access to treatment at private hospitals and clinics. You can also avoid waiting lists if you’re in a hurry to get help.
To find out more, read on and discover how to get protected with Cigna.
How does the healthcare system work in Sweden?
The public healthcare system is universal and run by the central government. This system is paid for through taxes, though the government also contributes. Patients pay for some prescriptions and treatments.
Pros and cons of using Sweden’s health system
Pros
- Sweden’s healthcare is far-reaching, covering inpatient and outpatient hospital care, prescription drugs, disability support, rehabilitation services and dental care.
- If a patient can’t find a doctor or dentist that speaks their language, they can have free help from an interpreter.
- Fees paid by patients are capped at 1,100 kronor (87 GBP/ 100 EUR) a year. The government will cover any further costs.
Cons
- The results of a 2021 survey found that 71% of Swedes believed a lack of staff was the biggest drawback with Sweden’s healthcare system.
- Long waiting times was also cited as an area of concern, by 51% of respondents.
- Swedes have also complained about not getting the chance to see their regular GP. They often must see temporary hired doctors or nurses.
What’s the difference between public and private healthcare in Sweden?
What expats are or are not covered for without a health insurance plan?
Expats living in Sweden as permanent residents are eligible for healthcare without a health insurance plan. To sign up, expats must:
- Get a residence permit
- Get a personnummer (personal tax ID)
- Visit a vårdcentraler (local healthcare centre).
You may require private health insurance in Sweden until you can obtain a personnummer. If you need care urgently, you can visit a närakut (local acute care centre).
Choosing your international health insurance
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Cigna Global Health Options Plans
Overview
The core benefits on the Silver plan provide international inpatient and daypatient cover, including hospital stays and treatment.
Available additional modules:Core hospitalisation cover overview:
- Annual benefit limit: $1,000,000
- Inpatient and daypatient treatment
- Private room
- Full cancer care
- Newborn care cover
Overview
Comprehensive coverage, with higher overall annual limits and added benefits including inpatient maternity care.
Available additional modules:Core hospitalisation cover overview:
- Annual benefit limit: $2,000,000
- Inpatient and daypatient treatment
- Private room
- Full cancer care
- Inpatient Maternity
Overview
Our highest level of coverage offers an unlimited overall annual limit, with most benefits being paid in full.
Available additional modules:Core hospitalisation cover overview:
- Annual benefit limit: Paid in full
- Inpatient and daypatient treatment
- Private room
- Full cancer care
- Inpatient Maternity
- Mental and Behavioural Health care paid in full
Cigna Close Care℠ Plan
Overview
An essential health plan created for those who need coverage only in their country of residence, and their country of nationality.
Available additional modules:Core hospitalisation cover overview:
- Annual benefit limit: $500,000
- Condition limit: $250,000
- Inpatient and daypatient treatment
- Semi-private room
- Full cancer care
Why choose Cigna for health insurance in Sweden?
Choose Cigna health insurance in Sweden for a flexible plan that works for you.
- Our global support network covers more than 192 countries, so there’s always an expert ready to help.
- Sweden’s public healthcare is excellent, but with private healthcare, you can leave behind potentially long queues and get help when you need it most.
- Access to our 24/7 helpline, with multilingual agents who can help you get the care you need, quickly and easily.
- Get in touch today and you can receive a quote in two minutes. You can then buy online in just 10 minutes.
FAQs
You can qualify for Sweden’s free public healthcare with Swedish residency. As an expat, you’ll qualify after living in the nation for a year. Prior to that, it’s best to consider an international health insurance package to ensure you safeguard your health from all eventualities.
There’s no law against not having insurance cover, though it will prevent you covering potentially large medical bills yourself.
Public healthcare is universal in Sweden if you have a residency permit for over a year, but you may need private insurance from your home country at first. This would be the case until you can get a Swedish ID number, which will grant you access to the public healthcare system.
With international health insurance, you can travel anywhere and know you’re looked after.
Most emergency dental treatments will be covered by our International Health Insurance core package.
Regular check-ups and other additional services are covered under our Dental specific packages. You can add these at sign-up or by contacting our Customer Care Team.