Oslo, Norway’s capital, is known for its high standard of living, and its healthcare system is no exception. The country’s universal healthcare ensures that all residents have access to quality medical services, with a strong emphasis on preventive care and public health. Whether you’re moving to Oslo or just visiting, understanding how the healthcare system works—including dental care, payments, and eligibility—can help you navigate medical services with ease.
An overview of the system
Norway has a publicly funded healthcare system, which is primarily financed through taxes and administered by the Norwegian Directorate of Health. The system ensures that all legal residents have access to essential medical services. While public healthcare covers most medical needs, private healthcare options are also available for those seeking faster service or specialized treatments.
Eligibility for Healthcare in Oslo
- Workers and Students: Those who work or study in Oslo for more than 12 months are eligible for public healthcare, while those staying for shorter periods may need private insurance.
- Residents: All legal residents of Norway, including expats and immigrants with a residence permit, are automatically enrolled in the National Insurance Scheme (Folketrygden), which grants access to public healthcare services.
- Tourists and Short-Term Visitors: Visitors from EU/EEA countries, the UK and Switzerland can access some healthcare through the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), thought it may be wise to obtain private health insurance before arrival.
General medical services in Oslo
General practitioners (Fastlege system)
Norway operates under a general practitioner (GP) system, where each resident is assigned a “fastlege” (family doctor). Your GP is your first point of contact for non-emergency medical concerns, and they can refer you to specialists when necessary.
- Booking appointments: You can schedule appointments online or by phone. Wait times vary but are generally reasonable.
- Changing your GP: Residents can switch doctors up to twice a year through the Norwegian Health Economics Administration (HELFO) website.
Specialist and hospital care
If you need specialized treatment, your GP will refer you to a hospital or specialist clinic. Public hospitals provide high-quality care, though wait times for non-urgent treatments can be long. Many residents opt for private healthcare to bypass wait times for certain procedures.
Emergency care
- Emergency number: Dial 113 for medical emergencies.
- Legevakt (Emergency clinics): For urgent but non-life-threatening issues, visit a legevakt (emergency clinic), which is available 24/7 throughout Oslo.
Dental care in Oslo
Unlike general healthcare, dental care is not fully covered by the public system for adults. However, children and young people under 18 receive free dental care through the public system.
Public vs. private dental care
- Children (Under 18): Free dental care is provided by the public system.
- Young Adults (Ages 19-20): Heavily subsidized dental care.
- Adults (21 and older): Must pay out-of-pocket for dental services, with prices varying between private clinics.
Costs of dental services
Dental prices can vary, but typical costs include:
- Routine check-up: 800–1,500 NOK
- Teeth cleaning: 700–1,200 NOK
- Cavity fillings: 1,000–2,000 NOK per filling
- Root canal treatment: 3,000–7,000 NOK
Certain conditions, such as severe dental disease or accidents requiring extensive care, may be partially covered by the public system.
Payment and costs of healthcare in Oslo
Though public healthcare is tax-funded, patients still pay small fees for certain services. These are called user fees (egenandel) and apply to GP visits, specialist consultations, and prescriptions. Inpatient hospitalization, however is always provided at no cost.
Typical Healthcare Costs
- GP visit: 179 NOK (17 USD)
- Specialist visit: 403 NOK (40 USD)
- X-rays and imaging: 287 NOK (28 USD)
- Prescription medication: Varies; some are subsidized
Annual Deductible (Frikort system)
Norway has an annual cap on healthcare expenses called the frikort (free card) system. Once you reach the threshold (around 3,200 NOK per year), further healthcare services are free for the rest of the calendar year.
Pharmacies and medication in Oslo
Prescription and over-the-counter medications are available at pharmacies (apotek), which can be found throughout the city. Some pharmacies operate 24/7, such as Vitusapotek Jernbanetorget near Oslo Central Station. Many medications require a prescription from a GP or specialist.
Private health insurance
While not required, some residents opt for private health insurance to cover:
- Faster access to specialists
- Private hospitals and clinics
- Additional dental coverage
Popular providers include Gjensidige, If, and DNB Health Insurance.
Conclusion
Oslo’s healthcare system offers high-quality, accessible services for residents, with a strong emphasis on public health and preventive care. While public healthcare covers most medical needs, private options are available for those seeking expedited care. Dental care for adults is mostly private, but children and young adults benefit from free or subsidized services. By understanding how the system works, managing costs through the frikort system, and knowing where to access medical and dental care, residents and newcomers alike can navigate Oslo’s healthcare system with confidence.