How does Iceland's healthcare system work?

Iceland has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides high-quality medical care to its citizens. The system is largely publicly funded, with private healthcare providers operating alongside public providers. The government is responsible for regulating the healthcare system and ensuring that all Icelanders have access to quality medical care.

All Icelanders are required to have health insurance, which is funded through taxes and administered by the state. The system is based on the principle of equal access to healthcare, with no distinction made between rich and poor, young and old, or sick and healthy.

Primary care is provided by general practitioners (GPs), who act as gatekeepers to the system and refer patients to specialists as needed. There are also a number of public hospitals and health centers throughout the country that provide a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation.

Private healthcare providers also operate in Iceland, providing additional options for those who wish to seek medical care outside of the public system. However, most Icelanders rely on the public system for their healthcare needs, as private healthcare can be quite expensive.