Expat Healthcare Guide: Medical Care in Reykjavik

Healthcare Overview

Reykjavik offers healthcare facilities across 11 medical districts, with a cost of living score of 2.0/5. Explore insurance options, hospitals, and medical costs for expat families below.

Reykjavik offers excellent healthcare through Iceland's universal public healthcare system (Sjúkratryggingar Íslands), which consistently ranks among the top healthcare systems globally. The system is predominantly public with limited private options, characterized by high-quality care, modern facilities, and strong emphasis on preventive medicine. Iceland's small population allows for efficient healthcare delivery with minimal waiting times compared to other Nordic countries, though specialist services may have longer waits.

Quick Stats

Security Score

5.0 /5

Cost of Living

2.0 /5

Medical Areas

Cost Items

Top Healthcare Neighborhoods

See All 11 →

Hlíðar

Density 4/6

Facilities: Clinics, health centers, specialist offices

Notable: Landspítali University Hospital, Domus Medica, Heilsugæslan Hlíðar

Miðbær Downtown

Density 3/6

Facilities: Clinics, specialty centers, pharmacies

Notable: Læknasetrið, Heilsugæslan Miðbæjar

Vesturbær

Density 3/6

Facilities: Clinics, health centers, specialist offices

Notable: Heilsugæslan Vesturbæ, Læknamiðstöðin í Vesturbæ

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Practical Tips

ensures access to public health services and a designated GP

Use the Heilsuvera app but set language to Icelandic first

the English version has fewer features and doesn't show all available appointment times

Book dental appointments well in advance in Iceland

securing an appointment can take time as dental care is largely private and often has waiting lists

Get prescriptions filled at Costco pharmacy (no membership needed)

prices are typically 20-30% lower than other pharmacies

Useful Links

Icelandic Health Insurance

Official government institution managing public health insurance, explaining coverage, registration procedures, and healthcare rights for residents.

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Heilsugæslan - Primary Healthcare Centers

Network of public primary healthcare clinics in Reykjavik, with information on registration, services, and accessing general practitioners.

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Landspítali - National University Hospital

Iceland's main hospital providing information on emergency services, specialist care, and patient services in Reykjavik.

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Directorate of Health

Government authority providing health policy information, public health guidelines, and healthcare system navigation resources.

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Emergency Services - 112 Iceland

Official emergency response service with information on accessing urgent medical care, emergency procedures, and the 112 app for location services.

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Explore Other Guides

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Frequently Asked Questions

Reykjavik offers both public and private healthcare options for expats. Quality and accessibility depend on your insurance coverage and chosen facility. Use ReloPlanner to compare healthcare options and costs.

Reykjavik has 11 neighborhoods with notable healthcare facilities. The best areas depend on your specific medical needs. Check ReloPlanner for detailed healthcare density scores.

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Data verified: March 2026

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