Turkey can offer most medical services that you had at home. However, the quality of these services can greatly vary. To ensure that you receive the highest quality of services, purchase expat health insurance before arriving in Turkey. That way, you can use the best private facilities without fear of expensive medical bills.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies or “eczane” are available throughout Turkey. However, Turkish pharmacies are very different from the pharmacies you may be used to in your home country. Many Turkish pharmacies do not require prescriptions for most drugs that you may need a prescription for at home. Pharmacies also offer basic medical services and vaccinations.
Also, do not assume that Turkish pharmacies will have your medication in stock. Often, the pharmacy may not carry it, and you will need to wait several days for it to be sent from abroad.
Pharmacies in large cities are generally opened 24 hours a day. Smaller cities may have a duty pharmacist, who is on call 24 hours a day.
People in Turkey rely heavily on medication for treatment. It is not unusual for a doctor to write 3 or 4 prescriptions for even a minor medical problem. Even if you don’t have an official diagnosis, you will probably be given one prescription for general health improvement. Turkish culture emphasizes a great faith in pharmaceutical treatments. Also, pharmaceutical companies have been known to pay doctors extra money for pushing their medication.
Be careful because some pharmacists do not have medical knowledge or will try to sell you the most medication in stock even if it is not necessary.
Dentists
Dentists are available throughout most of Turkey, with the exception of rural areas. Most are well-trained, and are cheaper than they are in the western world. However, be careful, as some dentists do not have formal training, and have only leaned through observation. Always look for a qualified, licensed dentist.
The US Embassy has a list of English-speaking dentists in Turkey. The list also shows their professional credentials and qualifications.
Check with your expat health insurance provider to see if dental is covered by your insurance package. Many basic plans do not cover dental. It may even be cheaper to just pay out of pocket.
Ophthalmologists
Turkey is a popular destination for medical tourists. One of the more popular markets is for ophthalmologic treatment. The country has such a good reputation for treating diseases and problems of the eye that foreign opthalmologists often go to Turkey for training.