Information about the Norwegian Healthcare system and insurance system.

Norway is considered one of the best countries in the world for quality and accessibility of healthcare. The Norwegian healthcare system is based on a public healthcare system that aims to provide universal healthcare to every citizen and those legally living in Norway. The healthcare system in Norway is based on the Norwegian Health and Welfare Act. This law states that everyone has the right to access basic healthcare. Norwegian citizens and legal residents of Norway can benefit from state-supported healthcare services. Healthcare in Norway is publicly funded. Financing is provided by taxes and social security premiums paid by the public. Under the Norwegian Health and Welfare Act, people must obtain a personal number (fødselsnummer) in order to benefit from healthcare services. Healthcare in Norway is provided through government-funded hospitals, health centers and clinics. Norway has emergency medical services available 24 hours a day for emergencies. There is also a system of general practitioners (fastlege) in Norway. Every Norwegian citizen or legal resident of Norway can choose a general practitioner and benefit from primary care with this doctor. Health insurance is not compulsory in Norway. Access to healthcare is publicly funded for Norwegian citizens and legal residents of Norway. Foreigners living in Norway must be covered by the social security system or purchase private health insurance to benefit from healthcare services. The healthcare system in Norway has generally high standards and is highly developed in the areas of medical technology, research and education. Norway continues to work to continually improve the quality and accessibility of healthcare.