What is Private Health Insurance in Turkey?
Private health insurance in Turkey gives you access to private hospitals and clinics entirely independently of the SGK (Social Security) system. Whether or not you have SGK membership, a private health policy lets you receive treatment at contracted private facilities without out-of-pocket top-up charges.
Key difference from TSS (Complementary Health Insurance): TSS is designed only for active SGK members and retirees — it covers the top-up fee above SGK's own payment. Private health insurance, by contrast, operates independently of SGK and is available to anyone regardless of social security status.
As an independent broker, Neolife Group compares private health products from multiple insurers and presents the best premium/coverage combination for your individual profile.
Coverage
Core benefits
Inpatient treatment
Surgery, intensive care, hospital room, and all clinical services at contracted hospitals. Direct billing — no upfront payment.
Outpatient treatment
Specialist consultations, polyclinic visits, and lab tests. Scope varies by plan tier.
Diagnostics and imaging
Blood tests, MRI, CT, PET, ultrasound, and other diagnostic services.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy and rehabilitation sessions prescribed by a doctor. Session limits may apply.
Optional add-ons
Dental
Conservative dental treatment (fillings, extractions). Prosthetics, implants, and cosmetic procedures handled separately.
Vision
Eye examinations; some plans include glasses/contact lens allowances or laser surgery.
Maternity
Normal and caesarean delivery, neonatal care. Waiting period applies; policy should be in place before conception.
Extended outpatient
Prescription drug contributions and additional polyclinic visits in some plans.
Waiting period: Certain benefits (especially maternity, chronic conditions) may be subject to a waiting period from policy inception. Pre-existing conditions affect coverage; the health declaration before signing must be accurate and complete.
TSS vs Private Health: If you have SGK membership, TSS is usually more cost-effective. If you have no SGK, private health insurance is the only comprehensive alternative. We can compare both for you.
Exclusions
Note: The following are typically excluded from standard policies. Always read the policy wording carefully.
- Pre-existing conditions (waiting period or exclusion may apply)
- Cosmetic and non-medically-necessary procedures
- Substance abuse treatment (in some policies)
- Injuries from war, terrorism, or civil unrest
- Treatment at non-contracted hospitals (unless emergency)
Who is it for?
- Individuals without SGK: Self-employed without Bağ-Kur registration, freelancers, and new arrivals.
- Those preferring private hospital comfort: No waiting lists, free choice of specialist.
- Foreign nationals residing in Turkey: Expats who cannot access SGK coverage (Foreign Residents Health Insurance is also an option).
- Anyone wanting comprehensive individual health coverage.