You feel ill, develop a fever, or need medical help. What should you do in this situation? Should you call an ambulance or book an appointment with a doctor? How much could it cost?
Different rules apply to foreign citizens receiving medical care in Russia. A lot depends on the situation and whether you have health insurance.
Let’s look at the difference between emergency medical care, compulsory medical insurance (OMS), and voluntary medical insurance (DMS).
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When Can You Call an Ambulance for Free?
Emergency medical care in Russia is provided to foreign citizens free of charge, even if they do not have a health insurance policy.
For example, this applies when there is a threat to life due to a serious injury, loss of consciousness, severe bleeding, or another dangerous condition.
You can call an ambulance by dialing 103 or 112.
However, it is important to understand that free emergency care does not mean that treatment for any illness will also be free. If you need further scheduled examinations or treatment, the cost will depend on your insurance status.
What Is OMS and Who Is Eligible for It?
OMS is Russia’s compulsory medical insurance system. It allows eligible people to receive medical care under the state healthcare program without paying separately for services covered by that program.
However, not every foreign citizen can obtain OMS immediately after arriving in Russia.
For example, many foreign citizens with a temporary residence permit (RVP) or residence permit (VNZh), as well as employed citizens of EAEU countries, may be eligible for OMS if they meet the applicable requirements.
Additional requirements apply to temporarily staying foreign workers who do not belong to special categories. In particular, the law requires compulsory medical insurance contributions to have been paid for at least five years.
Therefore, being officially employed does not automatically mean that a foreign citizen is already entitled to free medical treatment under OMS.
What Is DMS and Why Is It Needed for a Work Patent?
DMS is voluntary medical insurance. This type of policy is purchased from an insurance company, and the range of medical services available depends on the terms of the insurance contract.
To obtain a work patent, a foreign citizen must provide proof of medical coverage.
A DMS policy is usually used for this purpose. However, the law also allows a contract with a medical organization for paid medical services or an OMS policy if the foreign citizen is eligible for one.
A DMS policy used for a work patent must cover primary healthcare and specialized medical care in urgent cases.
However, having a policy does not mean that the insurance company will pay for every type of treatment.
For example, certain examinations, dental services, or treatment for chronic conditions may not be included in the insurance plan. It all depends on the specific policy.
What Should You Do If You Get Sick?
If your condition is life-threatening or requires emergency care, call an ambulance at 103 or 112.
If the situation is not an emergency, what you should do depends on your insurance:
- If you have OMS: contact a clinic or another medical organization that provides services under your insurance program.
- If you have DMS: call the insurance company using the phone number listed on your policy and ask where you can receive treatment.
- If you do not have insurance: you can book a paid medical appointment. If your life is in danger, emergency medical care must still be provided free of charge.
Do not forget to check the expiration date of your DMS policy and save your insurance company’s contact details. It is best to find out in advance which clinics accept your policy and which services it covers.
What Is Important to Remember?
Emergency medical care, OMS, and DMS are not the same thing.
Emergency medical services provide help in urgent and life-threatening situations. OMS gives eligible foreign citizens access to medical care under the state healthcare program. DMS provides medical services within the limits of the selected insurance plan and is often used when applying for a work patent.
