Croatia’s healthcare system has three levels of protection. Most people think they are the same. They are not. The difference is in money, access, and — at the end of the day — whether you will wait a month or a year for surgery.
Let’s start from the beginning: what does mandatory health insurance cover, and why do people pay for additional policies?
Mandatory health insurance (HZZO) — the basics
Everyone who works in Croatia pays a mandatory health insurance contribution of 16.5% of gross salary. This gives you access to basic healthcare: a general practitioner, hospital treatment, emergency care, and basic diagnostics.
The problem: Mandatory insurance does not cover everything. It does not cover dental care (beyond basic), physical therapy in full, glasses, better medications, or private specialist exams. And — crucially — waiting lists for specialist appointments and surgeries can be months or years.
Supplementary (dopunsko) insurance
Supplementary insurance covers the co-payment — the part you normally pay out of pocket when visiting a doctor, getting tests, or staying in a hospital. Without it, each doctor visit costs €2-€5, a hospital day €20, and larger tests more.
Cost: around €15-€25 per month.
Who needs it? Practically anyone who uses public healthcare. One hospitalization without supplementary insurance can cost hundreds of euros.
Additional (dodatno) insurance
Additional insurance goes a step further. It covers services that HZZO does not cover at all: private specialist exams, better hospital conditions (single room), physical therapy, glasses and contacts, dental care, alternative medicine.
Cost: €30-€80 per month.
Who needs it? Those who want faster access to specialists, better dental care, and more choices. Ideal for families with children.
Private health insurance
Private health insurance is a complete replacement for public healthcare — or an upgrade for those who want the best care. It covers everything: private hospitals, top specialists without waiting, premium diagnostics.
Cost: €100-€300+ per month.
Quick comparison
Mandatory + supplementary: €15-€25/mo — basic care, long waits, co-pay covered.
Mandatory + supplementary + additional: €45-€105/mo — faster specialist access, dental, glasses.
Private: €100-€300+/mo — premium care, no waiting, private hospitals.
Which level do you need? It depends on your health, budget, and lifestyle. But one thing is certain: relying only on HZZO in 2026 is a gamble. Not because the system is bad — but because it is overloaded.
This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute insurance advice. Consult a licensed agent for specific recommendations.