Healthcare in Georgia: Seeing a Doctor & Pharmacies

Georgia has a mixed public and private healthcare system. Most foreigners use private healthcare, particularly in the larger cities, where modern facilities, relatively short waiting times and English-speaking medical staff are widely available.

Seeing a doctor

Most foreigners choose private clinics, where you can usually book an appointment quickly and many clinics also offer same-day appointments or accept walk-in patients.

The best-equipped medical centres are in Tbilisi and Batumi, and many have English-speaking doctors, international departments and modern diagnostic equipment.

Public hospitals are also available, but private clinics are generally preferred for convenience, shorter waiting times and language support.

Emergencies

The national emergency number is 112, which can be used to call an ambulance, the police or the fire service.

Emergency medical assistance is available regardless of nationality. Charges may apply depending on the circumstances and the patient’s eligibility for publicly funded healthcare. If you do not have insurance, you will normally be responsible for paying the cost of your treatment yourself.

Pharmacies and medicines

Pharmacies are easy to find throughout Georgia, particularly in larger cities, and many are open late or 24 hours a day.

Many medicines that require a prescription in other countries can be purchased over the counter in Georgia. If you regularly take medication, it is a good idea to know its generic (international) name, as brand names may differ. For controlled medicines, bring both an adequate supply and a doctor’s prescription or medical letter.

Paying for healthcare

Eligibility for Georgia’s Universal Healthcare Programme depends on the person’s legal status and other criteria. Many foreign nationals are not eligible for comprehensive public coverage and therefore either pay privately or rely on private health insurance.

Routine consultations and basic medical care are generally affordable compared with many Western countries, but hospital treatment, surgery or emergency care can still be expensive.

For more information about insurance requirements, public healthcare eligibility and choosing a policy, see our health insurance guide.

Insurance is essential

For most foreigners living in Georgia, private health insurance is strongly recommended.

Visitors entering Georgia as tourists are generally required to comply with the applicable health insurance requirements.

If you are visiting Georgia as a tourist, health insurance is generally mandatory. Since 1 January 2026, tourists must have a policy with at least GEL 30,000 in coverage to enter the country.

Even though everyday healthcare in Georgia is relatively affordable, emergency treatment or a serious hospital stay can still result in significant costs. Having appropriate insurance protects you financially and gives you access to private healthcare when you need it.

For the entry requirements, minimum coverage and exemptions, see our Health Insurance in Georgia guide.

Finding English-speaking doctors

Most large private hospitals have international patient departments and English-speaking medical staff. If language is important, confirm this when booking your appointment.

Healthcare outside the main cities

The highest standards of healthcare and the widest choice of specialists are found in Tbilisi and Batumi. Smaller towns and rural areas have more limited facilities, and patients requiring specialised treatment are often referred to larger hospitals in the major cities.

Frequently asked questions

How do I see a doctor in Georgia?

Most foreigners use private clinics, which take appointments and often walk-ins, with shorter waits than many countries. Larger private clinics in Tbilisi and Batumi commonly have English-speaking doctors.

What is the emergency number?

112 is the single emergency number for ambulance, police and fire. Emergency medical care is available, but you should expect to settle costs through insurance or payment afterwards.

Are pharmacies easy to find?

Yes. Pharmacy chains are widespread in cities and well stocked, and many medicines are available over the counter. Bring the generic (international) name of any regular medication to help find an equivalent.

Will the state healthcare system cover me?

Generally not much. The state Universal Healthcare Program is built around Georgian citizens, and foreigners — even with a residence permit — usually get only limited free cover. Private insurance or out-of-pocket payment is the norm.

Do I need health insurance?

It is strongly advisable, and since 1 January 2026 health and accident insurance (minimum sum insured GEL 30,000) is required just to enter Georgia — see the health insurance guide.