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Introduction

The Danish health system

Introduction

The quality of Denmark’s health system is extremely high; on the same level as the medical care you find in many Western European countries. Hospitals in Denmark have excellent facilities, and most doctors and dentists speak at least some English.

The Danish health service is financed through income tax, so state medical treatment in Denmark is available to all Danish residents and EU citizens free of charge. Free emergency treatment is available to visitors from all other countries.

The Danish health system is divided into two sectors:

Primary health care: Primary health care deals with general health problems and is usually the first point of contact if you require general medical treatment. Services in this sector are available to everyone, and include treatments from general practitioners, dentists, physiotherapists, etc.

Hospital sector: Hospitals are responsible for patients who require more specialised medical treatment, for example intensive care or the need for specialist equipment.

General practitioners (GPs) in the primary health care sector are responsible for referring patients who they believe require hospital treatment or need to see a specialist. GPs are usually the first point of consultation in the event of illness. Except in an emergency, you will need to be referred by your GP in order to receive specialist treatment in the hospital sector.

As well as treating patients, both sectors also offer preventive treatment as well as conducting medical training and research.

The Danish health card

The health card is proof of your entitlement to public health services; listing your name, CPR number and your doctor’s contact information. You must present the card whenever you visit a doctor, go to hospital as well as many other places. Your Danish health card can also be a form of identification when no photo is required.

You will receive your health card once you have registered with the Civil Registration System in your local municipality.

What to do in an emergency

In the event of an emergency, you should call 112 immediately to reach an ambulance, the police or the fire brigade.

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