Record 62 tourist medical clinics to operate across Croatia in 2026

ZAGREB, 16 February 2026 (Hina) – Croatia is set to enter the 2026 tourist season with its most extensive seasonal healthcare network to date, as health centres across the country begin contracting additional medical teams to operate at a record 62 locations.

According to the Ministry of Health, the expanded network will provide medical services for both domestic and foreign visitors, with costs covered through existing health insurance systems.

Officials say more than 20 new locations are expected to be added this year, significantly increasing access to primary healthcare during peak travel months.

The move marks the largest rollout since the programme was introduced and reflects the growing importance of healthcare provision as part of Croatia’s overall tourism offering.

Wider Coverage Across 11 Counties

Additional medical teams are planned in 11 counties, stretching from Istria and Kvarner along the Adriatic coast to Dalmatia, Slavonia and central Croatia.

For the first time, Karlovac County and Krapina-Zagorje County are included in the programme, underlining the steady rise in continental tourism.

While coastal regions continue to see the highest concentration of visitors during summer, inland destinations are increasingly popular. The healthcare system, officials say, is adapting accordingly.

In 2024, more than 26,500 tourist visits were recorded at seasonal clinics.

The highest number of interventions took place in Istria County, Dubrovnik-Neretva County, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, Šibenik-Knin County and Lika-Senj County, areas where the population multiplies during peak season.

Reduced Pressure on Hospitals

Health authorities emphasise that the expansion is not merely symbolic. With more clinics operating, waiting times are expected to shorten and pressure on regular GP surgeries and hospital emergency departments to ease.

Last year, 56 locations were initially planned, but staffing shortages meant services ultimately operated at 40 sites. The increase to 62 locations in 2026 signals improved organisation and stronger coordination ahead of the season.

Temporary medical teams can be contracted from 1 February through to the end of December. Health centres that express interest may open additional surgeries at designated tourist locations.

These clinics will be fully integrated into Croatia’s national health information system, allowing doctors to issue prescriptions, referrals and provide basic medical treatment just as in regular practices.

For visitors, this means straightforward access to care. If they fall ill, sustain minor injuries or require therapy, they can seek assistance locally without needing to visit hospital or pay upfront, provided they are covered under Croatian insurance, European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) arrangements or relevant international agreements.

Alongside network expansion, investment in equipment continues. Over the past two years, more than €500,000 has been invested in medical equipment for tourist care locations, with a further €190,000 secured for 2026. The goal is to ensure clinics are equipped to handle common seasonal conditions, from minor injuries and infections to exacerbations of chronic illnesses.

The Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO) has also announced improved monitoring and data collection on healthcare services provided to tourists, enabling more precise planning and adaptation in future seasons.

The organised model of additional healthcare teams for tourists was first introduced nationally in 2024 in response to mounting seasonal pressure on the healthcare system. While individual counties had previously implemented ad hoc solutions, 2024 marked the first coordinated national framework with defined financial and organisational backing.

Following strong results, including over 26,500 visits in its first year, the model continued in 2025 and has now evolved into a standard seasonal organisational structure in tourist and high-traffic areas.

The initiative is the result of cooperation between the Ministry of Health, the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO), county authorities and local health centres.

As Croatia prepares for another strong tourism year, officials stress that accessible and reliable healthcare is not only a logistical necessity but also a key component of the country’s international reputation.